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Information on Mosquitoes
There are at least 26 mosquito species that can transmit West Nile Virus. In Kansas, the primary mosquito species identified as carrying the virus belong to the genus Culex.
WNV typically circulates between birds and mosquitoes. The female mosquito feeds on the blood of an infected bird. The virus multiplies in the mosquito gut and then travels to the salivary glands. When an infected mosquito bites or feeds on a non-infected bird, it injects virus-containing saliva into the new host. The common way mammals, including horses and people, are infected with the virus is a bite from an infected mosquito.
Below is some information on the mosquitoes.
Culex pipiens and Culex restuans prefer to bite or feed on birds, but if their breeding sites are close to homes they might bite people and domestic animals. Both species breed in standing water, especially water polluted with organic matter. They are weak fliers and are most active at dawn and dusk.
Culex salinarius feeds indiscriminately on birds and mammals, including humans. It is found in fresh and saltwater marshes, lakes, ponds, and man-made containers around homes. It is a good flier and active from sunset to sunrise.
Culex tarsalis is one of the most abundant mosquitoes in Kansas. It breeds primarily in rural areas in temporary to semi-permanent depressions in pastures, ditches and springs. It is a good flier, is most active at dusk, and feeds most frequently on cattle, chickens and people. In addition to being a vector of west nile virus, this mosquito is the main vector of western equine encepahalitis.
Culex erraticus is present in forested areas. it is a weak flier and feeds on forest animals.