When the days become shorter again and the swarms of mosquitoes disappear over lakes and streams, that does not mean the end of the life of the insects. Many people don't even know that animals survive the winter. You can read on this page when and where a mosquito's life begins and when it ends.
How long do mosquitoes live on average?
The lifespan of mosquitoes varies depending on gender: male mosquitoes live only a few days after fertilization of females, while female mosquitoes survive for up to six weeks and lay their eggs before winter to ensure the survival of their species.
Gender matters
Many people assume that mosquitoes die after summer. But this only applies to male animals. However, they first mate with the females. After that, they no longer have a major role. The situation is completely different with females. By laying their eggs in the cold months, they ensure their survival in the following year.
Life cycle of a mosquito
- Egg
- Larva
- Doll
- Imago
The hour of birth
The females lay their eggs before the onset of winter. They usually choose open water sources such as rain barrels or garden ponds. These places later provide the brood with optimal conditions for development. Depending on the species, eggs are laid either individually or in packets in so-called boats. The larvae hatch after just three to five days.
mosquito larvae
Once the mosquito larvae have hatched, they are dependent on oxygen, like all living things. Nevertheless, they initially retain their place of birth. By creating an air pipe to the surface of the water, they ensure the necessary oxygen supply. The larvae of other mosquito species serve as food. In order to survive, there should not be too much water movement at the site. If there is a lack of surface tension, the animals are unable to stay afloat. When threatened, they seek shelter beneath the surface of the water. The mosquito larvae stay here for one to three weeks.
The Doll
As the process progresses, the larvae wrap themselves into a pupa. In this state they are not dependent on food. Nevertheless, they are so mobile that they can seek protection in case of danger. Most of the time the stage of a pupa only lasts a few days.
The adult mosquito
The final stage is the imago. Only now are the insects able to fly and leave the body of water where their life began. The males hatch earlier than the females. Ultimately, these animals also continue the cycle of reproduction next fall. Female mosquitoes live significantly longer than males, up to six weeks.
Mosquitoes in winter
Female mosquitoes retreat to cattle sheds, garages or abandoned parts of buildings in winter. Here they fall into hibernation, which makes their bodies resistant to frost. However, if a mosquito manages to penetrate a warm living space, it will remain active even in the winter months. Mosquito bites are also possible at this time. Especially after laying eggs, the females need proteins from human and animal blood to replenish their reserves.
