Southern House Mosquito

Culex quinquefasciatus — the Southern House Mosquito — is the species responsible for most night-time biting in South Florida yards and is the primary vector of West Nile virus in Broward and Palm Beach Counties. Unlike the day-biting Aedes species, Culex is strictly a night feeder that breeds in stagnant, organically-enriched water.

How to Identify Southern House Mosquito

Breeding & Habitat

Prefers organically enriched, stagnant water: drainage ditches, storm drains, retention ponds, bird baths with algae, and neglected swimming pools. Canal systems throughout Broward and Palm Beach Counties are significant Culex breeding habitat. Does not use clean container water like Aedes species.

Why This Species Is a Problem in South Florida

South Florida's network of canals, retention ponds, and drainage infrastructure creates vast Culex habitat. The species is the primary reason why lakefront and canal-front properties experience intense night-time mosquito pressure regardless of how well homeowners manage containers. West Nile virus is reported in Florida every year, with Broward and Palm Beach Counties among the highest-risk areas.

How We Control Southern House Mosquito

Culex rests in dense shrub foliage, under decks, and in tree canopy during the day. Barrier spray to these resting areas dramatically reduces night-time populations. Because Culex breeds in water bodies rather than containers, source elimination is less effective — regular spray is the primary control method for waterfront properties.