Gallinipper

Description:

This particular mosquito was gigantic - about 20 mm long with its legs!! Gallinippers are one of the largest mosquitoes in the United States. Males and females feed on nectar, while only females seek bloodmeals with large mammals being their preferred hosts. Females bloodfeed day and night and are able to bite through heavy clothing!

Habitat:

Attracted to a light at night in a rural area.

Notes:

The word "gallinipper" originated as a vernacular term in the southeastern U.S. referring to "a large mosquito or other insect that has a painful bite or sting".