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Can you tell me if this i... #356863

Asked August 26, 2016, 3:54 PM EDT

Can you tell me if this is a mosquito and because it is huge a little info about it would be great. Thanks Sue.

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. 

An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 26, 2016, 5:41 PM EDT
Dear Michael B ,
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
The Question Asker Replied August 27, 2016, 12:42 PM EDT

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