Populations that develop in the Pine Barrens pupate in early April. May. The pools that produced the single generation dry down quickly as the surrounding trees leaf out and females lay a band of eggs around the perimeter. Embryos within the eggs of this univoltine species enter diapause and do not hatch if the pool refloods with summer rains. The onset of cold breaks diapause and the eggs hatch in very early spring to initiate the next generation. Aedes stimulans has an affinity for shaded woodland pools with a lining of heavy leaf litter.
Temporary pools formed by spring overflow of rivers and streams can be very productive.
Drainage ditches that are cut through forested areas are another habitat utilized by this species. The deep snowpools filled with dark colored water that are favored by Ae. When the two species coexist, the water is generally shallower and covered with a heavier lining of leaves. Aedes stimulans larvae favor shade and frequently congregate in the darker portions of the larval habitat. The larvae of Ae.