The presence of mosquitoes in Las Vegas, a desert city, may seem counterintuitive given its arid conditions. However, human activity has created the necessary standing water habitats for these insects to thrive, even in unexpected places.
Mosquitoes in the Desert City
Mosquitoes are present in Las Vegas, largely due to human-made water sources that provide breeding grounds. Neglected swimming pools, golf courses with extensive irrigation and water hazards, and other irrigated landscapes and artificial lakes enable these insects to thrive in the desert.
Several mosquito species inhabit the Las Vegas Valley. The Southern House Mosquito (Culex quinquefasciatus) is common in urban areas and a known carrier of West Nile virus. The Yellow Fever Mosquito (Aedes aegypti), an aggressive daytime biter, has rapidly expanded its presence across Las Vegas ZIP codes since 2017 and can transmit viruses such as dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika. Other species include the Common House Mosquito (Culex pipiens), Western Encephalitis Mosquito (Culex tarsalis), and the Asian Tiger Mosquito (Aedes albopictus).
Seasonal Activity and Breeding Grounds
Mosquito activity in Las Vegas is seasonal, typically from March through October, peaking May to September. Warmer months, especially July and August, see the highest populations due to rapid reproduction. While some species are active at dawn and dusk, the Aedes aegypti is an aggressive daytime biter.
Mosquitoes require standing water to lay eggs and complete their life cycle; even a small amount, like a bottle cap full, is sufficient. Common breeding sites around homes include neglected swimming pools, ideal for Culex mosquitoes. Small containers such as bird baths, plant saucers, buckets, old tires, and outdoor toys also serve as breeding locations for Aedes mosquitoes. Clogged gutters, leaky outdoor faucets, and irrigation runoff create damp areas where water accumulates, further contributing to breeding.
Protecting Yourself from Mosquitoes
Protecting yourself from mosquitoes involves personal precautions and environmental management. Outdoors, use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants reduces exposed skin. Ensure window and door screens are intact to prevent indoor entry.
Eliminating standing water around homes is a proactive step to prevent mosquito breeding. This includes regularly emptying and cleaning items like bird baths, pet dishes, and plant saucers. Clear roof gutters of debris and address any leaky outdoor faucets or irrigation systems.
The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) actively monitors mosquito populations for diseases, including West Nile virus, first detected in Clark County in 2004. The SNHD conducts surveillance from March through the fall, setting traps across the county to identify mosquito species and detect virus activity. While the health district monitors and provides public health guidance, local municipalities are responsible for mosquito suppression efforts in public spaces.