Flies & Mosquitoes
Mosquito
Biting flies that breed in standing water. Northern Ontario summers bring heavy mosquito pressure around homes, cottages and businesses.
Quick facts
- Size
- 3–6 mm
- Colour
- Grey to brown, slender
- Active season
- Late spring to early fall
- Where found
- Standing water, wet yards, shaded vegetation
How to Identify
- Slender body with long legs
- Long, needle-like mouthpart
- High-pitched whine in flight
Signs to Look For
- Bites at dusk and dawn
- Swarms near shaded, damp areas
- Larvae ("wrigglers") in standing water
Why It Matters
- Itchy bites and skin reactions
- Can transmit West Nile virus
- Make yards and patios hard to enjoy in peak season
Prevention Tips
- Empty standing water weekly — buckets, tires, plant saucers, eavestroughs
- Keep grass and shrubs trimmed
- Repair window and door screens
More Flies & Mosquitoes
Related Pests
Moderate risk
Bottle Fly
Shiny, metallic green or blue flies (also called blow flies) that breed in garbage and dead animals.
View pest
Low risk
Cluster Fly
Slow, sluggish flies that pack into attics and wall voids each fall, then appear on sunny windows.
View pest
Photo coming soon
Moderate risk
Drain Fly
Small, fuzzy, moth-like flies (also called moth flies or sewage flies) that breed in the slimy film inside drains and sewer lines.
View pest
Moderate risk
Fruit Fly
Tiny tan flies with red eyes that breed in ripe fruit, drains and anywhere sugary liquids collect.
View pest