Asian tiger mosquitoes thriving in drought

BALTIMORE - They're vicious, they'll bite in broad daylight, and officials with the Maryland Department of Agriculture say they are exploding in numbers.

Asian tiger mosquitoes don't need a whole lot of water to breed naturally, and even in drought conditions are posing a problem to homeowners not aware of the danger.

"They are aggressive," said Maryland Department of Agriculture field supervisor Pat Durkin.

It doesn't take much, as field supervisor Tony Dewitt showed ABC2 News how handles on a cooler turned upside down in attempt to make breeding difficult for pests provided the perfect habitat for Asian tiger mosquitoes. Also, Dewitt said water in flower pots and in drain pipes can be welcoming to the pest.

Since its initial discovery in Baltimore City in 1987, officials say the tiger mosquito has extended in range to all Maryland counties except Allegany and Garrett.

For more information on the Asian tiger mosquito, including health concerns, click here .