The Mosquito and Vector Management District of Santa Barbara County has issued an advisory about the recent detection of invasive Aedes aegypti mosquitoes near North Turnpike Road and Calle Real.

This aggressive, daytime-biting species poses a significant threat of establishing itself in Santa Barbara County if prompt action is not taken, the district said.

Aedes aegypti, often referred to as “ankle biters,” feed aggressively on humans both indoors and outdoors, according to the Vector Management District.

The district reports collecting several Aedes aegypti adult specimens and larvae from near the intersection of North Turnpike Road and Calle Real in the unincorporated Santa Barbara County area between Santa Barbara and Goleta on Oct. 16.

This follows an earlier detection in Carpinteria in July. Before that, the aggressive daytime biter was last detected in Santa Barbara County in 2021. 

Aedes aegypti is the second invasive mosquito species currently threatening to establish itself in the region, the Vector Management District said.

The first invasive species, Aedes notoscriptus, the Australian backyard mosquito, was detected in Santa Barbara’s West Side neighborhood in March and the Mesa neighborhood in June.

Unlike native mosquitoes, both Aedes species go after humans during both daytime and nighttime hours, indoors and outdoors.

Infestations in Santa Barbara County would cause significant irritation and discomfort for residents in local neighborhoods, officials warn.

“When population numbers are low, we still have an opportunity to eliminate these highly bothersome, introduced insects from our neighborhoods. By enlisting the public’s help, we can ensure these species do not become established in Santa Barbara County,” said Brian Cabrera, general manager of the Mosquito and Vector Management District.

“You can be part of the solution by eliminating any sources of water where eggs can be laid and by contacting the district if you suspect you are being bitten by these mosquitoes,” he said.

Native to Africa, Aedes aegypti was first detected in California in 2013 and has since spread across Southern California and the Central Valley. Globally, it can transmit viruses such as Dengue, Zika, Chikungunya, and yellow fever.

In 2024 and 2025 there were 20 confirmed cases of locally transmitted Dengue infection in Los Angeles County. The other three viruses are not known to be present in California.

In Australia, Aedes notoscriptus is the primary carrier of dog heartworm. While a native mosquito species serves as the primary vector for dog heartworm in California, pet owners are advised to ensure their pets are protected. Preventative medications are readily available through local veterinarians.

Both Aedes species prefer to stay close to human dwellings. Females lay their eggs in almost anything that holds stagnant water, including buckets, tires, birdbaths, pet dishes, potted plant saucers, clogged yard drains, and even water trapped inside plants like bromeliads.

Remarkably, the larvae of these species can complete their development in the amount of water that fills a single bottle cap, and their eggs can resist drying out for many months.

The district urges all Santa Barbara County residents to take the following preventative measures:

• Dump and Scrub: Remove all sources of standing water inside and outside your home. Scrub the sides of containers to destroy clinging eggs.
• Protect Your Home: Close open doors and ensure all window and door screens are in good repair.
• Protect Yourself: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and apply EPA-approved insect repellent when outdoors.
• Protect Your Pets: Consult your veterinarian to confirm your dogs are on heartworm prevention medication.

Report daytime mosquitoes

If you are experiencing aggressive mosquito bites, especially around the feet and ankles during daytime hours, or notice large collections of standing water in your neighborhood, please report it immediately.

Contact the Mosquito and Vector Management District, 805-969-5050, or submit a report through the Contact Us page on the district website.

The Mosquito & Vector Management District is an independent local government agency offering community-based services with tax funding and decision-making by an elected board of trustees. For more, visit mvmdistrict.org.