Mosquito

Near standing water (ponds, marshes, containers), often indoors at night

Adult females feed on blood (hematophagy) of humans and other animals; adult males and females also feed on nectar and plant sap

Nocturnal or crepuscular activity patterns; females seek blood meals for egg development; lay eggs in or near water sources. Larvae are aquatic.

Risks: Transmit numerous diseases including malaria, dengue, Zika virus, West Nile virus, chikungunya, and yellow fever. Their bites cause itchy welts. Benefits: Serve as a food source for other animals (fish, birds, bats) and play a role in pollination for some plants.