Mosquitoes have discriminating tastes Mosquitoes find their hosts through a keen sense of smell.
If you are convinced that mosquitoes have a greater affinity for you than for others, you may be correct. In a study to determine whether the tiny vampires choose their victims or feed indiscriminately, University of Florida entomologist Jerry Butler and research assistant Karen McKenzie found that mosquitoes do, indeed, choose. People do differ, and in any group of 10, one person will be fed on more than others. Mosquitoes have evolved and survived even thrived, Butler points out because of their ability to choose the best hosts for their blood meals, which they need to lay eggs. They find their hosts, initially, through a keen sense of smell.