Mosquitoes are small flying insects that feed on human and animal blood or plant juices.
Only female mosquitoes bite to get a blood meal for their growing eggs. Mosquitoes are generally considered a nuisance pest, but occasionally can transmit disease. There are about 70 different species of mosquitoes in New York State. Several mosquito species have been associated with West Nile virus, an infection that can cause serious illness. Some mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water around the home.