Broad-shouldered, taller people produce more CO2 and lactic acid, which attracts mosquitoes (not “sweet blood” as most think). The carbon dioxide trails from our breath are like “highways” on which mosquitoes head to their destination. ¹⁾

Even if no predator gets these insects, they still have a short life span. The average lifespan of a male is about 10 days, while females can live six to eight weeks. ²⁾

Mosquitoes are the deadliest insects on Earth due to mosquito-borne viruses (such as West Nile Virus, which causes severe fever) and parasites that cause malaria. This is a huge problem especially in Africa and tropical countries. It is estimated that about one million people worldwide die from malaria each year. ³⁾

Mosquitoes have a highly developed odor detection system. ⁴⁾

Only female mosquitoes feed on human blood. Food for male mosquitoes is plant juices and nectar from flowers. ⁵⁾

Mosquitoes do not like windy weather because it makes it difficult for them to sniff out prey. ⁶⁾