Knowledgebase
Can you tell me if this i... #356863
Asked August 26, 2016, 3:54 PM EDT
Franklin County Ohio
Expert Response
Dear Client,
Yes, this is a type of mosquito. Some people call it a 'Shaggy-Legged Gallinipper' -- Psorophora ciliate. One of the characteristics that helps identify this species is that it is one of the biggest mosquitoes in N. America. The length of your mosquito should be about 1/2 inch long. FMI see: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psorophora_ciliate
This mosquito is aggressive and will bite humans. The bite is somewhat painful but the mosquito is not know to carry any human diseases. The larvae of this mosquito species will feed on other mosquito species so it may be considered beneficial to some scientists until they get bitten by the adult mosquito.
I just can't thank you enough for your quick response to my question about the "shaggy-legged gallinipper". I was so surprised to hear from you quickly. It possibly bit my 3 year old grandson and I was quite concerned! Wonderful to hear it poses no health threat.
Thank you so much!
Sue