How and When Do Mosquitoes Breed?

We all know the feeling — the annoying buzz of a mosquito in your ear, followed by itchy bites that just won’t stop. But mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance. They’re carriers of dangerous diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya. That’s why it’s so important to understand when and how they breed — because stopping them at the source is the best way to stay protected.

At Rentokil PCI, we know mosquito behavior inside and out. Here’s what you need to know about their breeding habits and how we can help break the cycle.

The Mosquito Life Cycle in Four Stages

1. Egg:

A female mosquito can lay dozens or even hundreds of eggs at a time. These eggs can float in clusters on water (like Culex mosquitoes) or be laid individually near the edges (like Aedes mosquitoes). Some species’ eggs can even survive dry spells and hatch when water is available.

2. Larva (Wiggler):

Once the eggs hatch, larvae emerge. You’ll often see them wriggling in water — hence the nickname “wigglers.” They feed on tiny organisms and grow fast, shedding their skin several times. This stage can last from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on temperature and food.

3. Pupa (Tumbler):

Next comes the pupal stage. Pupae don’t eat, but they’re still active and will "tumble" when disturbed. Inside, the mosquito is transforming into its adult form. This stage usually lasts just a few days.

4. Adult:

Once fully developed, the adult mosquito emerges from the pupal case and rests on the water surface while its wings dry. The female mosquito then looks for a blood meal so she can lay her eggs, and the cycle begins again.

When Do Mosquitoes Breed?

Warm Weather:

Mosquitoes thrive in warm climates. Higher temperatures speed up their development, meaning they can go from egg to adult much faster — often producing multiple generations in a single season.

Rainy Season:

Rain provides perfect conditions for breeding. Water collects in all sorts of places — from pots and tires to gutters and construction sites — and these become ideal breeding spots. During monsoons in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, mosquito numbers rise sharply.

Humidity:

Mosquitoes also love humidity. Moist air helps them live longer, giving females more time to lay eggs — which means more mosquitoes overall.

Where Do Mosquitoes Breed?

Mosquitoes can breed almost anywhere that holds stagnant water. Here are the most common places:

Around the House:

• Flower pots and trays
• Birdbaths
• Water tanks and drums
• Buckets, tires, and open containers

Outdoor Areas:

• Puddles
• Water in construction sites
• Clogged drains and gutters
• Unused pools or fountains

Even Indoors:

• Stagnant water in sinks or floor drains
• Water trays under fridges or air conditioners
• Toilets that aren’t flushed regularly

How Rentokil PCI Helps Prevent Mosquito Breeding

Stopping mosquitoes before they grow is key. At Rentokil PCI, we offer expert solutions that target both larvae and adult mosquitoes:

Cold Fogging

A quick and efficient method that sprays fine mist into the air, targeting adult mosquitoes — even in hard-to-reach corners. It’s safe, fast-acting, and ideal for both homes and businesses.

Mosquito Nets

A non-chemical, long-term solution that keeps mosquitoes out while letting air flow freely. Perfect for windows, balconies, and other open areas, our mosquito nets are sturdy, easy to install, and made to last.

EcoBioTraps

Eco-friendly traps that attract and trap mosquitoes using non-toxic lures. Safe for kids, pets, and the environment — and a great sustainable option for homes or offices.

Don’t Let Mosquitoes Take Over

Understanding when and where mosquitoes breed is the first step toward effective control. With Rentokil PCI’s expert guidance and smart solutions, you can take action before mosquitoes become a bigger problem.

Call us today at 022-62604733 to schedule your inspection and take the first step toward a mosquito-free home.