Identification
Adult: proboscis unbanded; each hind tarsomere with broad pale basal band; abdomen black with narrow pale basal band on each segment; wings with intermixed pale scales; northern individuals are larger and darker than southern ones
(
see image from U. of Saskatchewan)
Range
northern third of United States plus most of Canada and Alaska
Habitat
in southern part of range (e.g. New Jersey), larvae are most common in snow-melt pools with heavy leaf litter in forested areas
farther north (e.g. Saskatchewan) larvae are usually found in semipermanent ponds and marshes
Season
adults present from May to August
Food
adult females prefer to feed on mammals and birds
Life Cycle
univoltine (one generation per year); overwinters as an egg
Remarks
transmits dog heartworm disease in some areas of the northern United States
Internet References
close-up adult images and brief overview (U. of Saskatchewan)
detailed overview (Wayne Crans, Rutgers U., New Jersey)
Contributed by
tom murray on 14 June, 2006 - 6:55am
Additional contributions by
Robin McLeodLast updated 14 June, 2006 - 9:22pm
