A worldwide community photographing and learning about wildlife
Project Noah Nature School
Aedes albopictus
Ornately decorated mosquito. This specimen was stunned, but still alive in this photo after being smacked mid air with a fly swatter. Body is about 1/4" long.
Thanks for the comments & ID. I almost always include dimensions in my spots... oversight this time. Oops.
Oh, the picture makes the insect look much larger than 1/4 of an inch. It appeared to me to be a crane fly because of the illusion it was bigger than it actually way. If you ever see a large, fast-moving mosquito, chances are it is actually a crane fly. Considering the one you found was 1/4 of an inch, which is completely small, a mosquito now makes sense with the knowledge of the size. Basic indicator between male mosquitos and crane flies: Male mosquitos are very slow, while crane flies are clumsy and fast. The ID gatorfellows has suggested is completely correct. :) Could you please try to add a size comparison, or an estimate in the description next time? It would help others find an ID more quickly! Thanks! :D
Sent you a suggestion. They are small, fast and their bite is mean. Mosquito bites are bad enough itching, but this one hurts when it first bites.
This was fast moving, and definitely a mosquito. It was buzzing and trying to sample my DNA. The body was about 1/4" long. Crane flies are much, much larger and can easily be captured mid-air with an open hand. I had to smack it to keep from losing a pint of blood.
Spotted on Jun 1, 2012
Submitted on Jun 2, 2012
