The mosquito species known as the Gallinipper, or Psorophora ciliata, is a giant mosquito native to the eastern half of the United States. It is known for its aggressive behavior and painful bite. The female requires a blood meal to develop her eggs, and its appearance often signals a serious nuisance, particularly after heavy rainfall or flooding. Unlike many common mosquitoes that bite subtly, the Gallinipper’s presence and feeding habits are hard to miss.
Identifying the Gallinipper Mosquito
The Gallinipper is easily identified by its substantial size, being considerably larger than most other mosquito species, sometimes described as being the size of a quarter. This mosquito can have a body about half an inch long, with a wing length up to 7 millimeters. A distinctive feature is the presence of long, dark, shaggy scales on its hind legs, which gives it the common nickname “shaggy-legged gallinipper.” The body often displays a black and white color pattern, resembling a super-sized version of the Asian tiger mosquito.
This species is classified as a floodwater mosquito because its life cycle is connected to temporary bodies of water. The female lays her eggs in the moist soil of low-lying areas or in dry earth prone to overflowing. These eggs possess a remarkable resilience, capable of remaining dormant for months or even years until submerged by floodwaters. Once the eggs hatch, often following heavy rains, the larvae develop rapidly, leading to sudden, large-scale population surges.
The Nature and Severity of the Bite
The bite of the female Gallinipper is notoriously painful and is consistently described as far more severe than a standard mosquito bite. The sensation is often compared to a sharp sting or feeling like being stabbed, an immediate and unmistakable pain. The mosquito’s size and powerful mouthparts allow it to pierce through light clothing, rendering thin long-sleeved shirts less effective.
The female is known for her extreme aggression, actively seeking blood meals from humans, livestock, and wildlife throughout the day and night. While the pain can linger for hours, the immediate health implications are generally limited to swelling and irritation at the bite site. The Gallinipper is not considered a primary vector for diseases like West Nile fever or various forms of encephalitis, although it has tested positive for some pathogens. The main concern following a bite is the potential for secondary bacterial infection if the painful welt is scratched excessively.
Protecting Yourself from Gallinippers
Personal protection remains the most reliable defense against these aggressive insects. Wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts is advisable, though individuals should choose thicker fabrics, as the Gallinipper can bite through thin material. Since these mosquitoes are active during the day, unlike the dusk and dawn activity of many other species, protection is required at all hours.
The use of an effective insect repellent is recommended, especially those containing active ingredients like DEET or picaridin. Due to the Gallinipper’s large size and robust nature, some entomologists suggest they may exhibit a greater tolerance to standard repellent compounds. Environmental control is difficult because their eggs hatch in temporary floodwaters, making the elimination of small, standing water sources less impactful for this species compared to others.