Gallinipper - Psorophora ciliata

Attack of the GIANT mosquitoes! 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! Total length: ~8 mm.

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".

Spotted on my deck near a light source. Luckily, she didn't bite me; but, I have been biten by this species before and it is quite painful. Just check out that proboscis!!

comments (2)

Ferdy Christant

Lion

Wow, nice as well as scary. You doubled our mosquito species in a matter of days, much needed and well done! Posted 7 years ago
1. Christine Young
  
  Lion
  
  Thanks! Unfortunately, these are the main species I see around here. But, maybe some others will some for a visit because I'd love to keep adding to the database! Posted 7 years ago

The Shaggy-legged gallinipper

''Psorophora ciliata'' is a large species of mosquito indigenous to the United States east of the continental divide. It is one of thirteen species of the genus which resides in the continental United States. The mosquito has been referred to as the “gallinipper” or “shaggy-legged gallinipper” due to its history of aggressive behavior.

Info 3 0

Similar species: True Flies

Species identified by Christine Young