Aedes aegypti mosquitoes were detected in four different locations within the city of Santa Barbara on Oct. 30, the Mosquito and Vector Management District of Santa Barbara County (MVMD) reports.

The specimens recently collected in the city of Santa Barbara were identified in two key areas:

● Eastside: Two detections near the intersection of North Voluntario and East Cota streets.

● Northeast of downtown: Two detections: one each near the intersections of Laguna and East Carrillo streets, and East Victoria and Olive streets.

The detections follow the collection of several Aedes aegypti adult specimens and larvae on Oct. 16 near North Turnpike Road and Calle Real in the unincorporated area between Santa Barbara and Goleta.

Prior to these events, the species was detected in Carpinteria in July, marking its first appearance in the county since 2021.
 
Aedes aegypti is the second invasive mosquito species currently threatening the region. Aedes notoscriptus (the Australian backyard mosquito) was detected earlier this year in Santa Barbara’s Westside neighborhood in March and the Mesa neighborhood in June.  

Unlike native mosquitoes, both invasive Aedes species feed aggressively on humans during both daytime and nighttime hours, indoors and outdoors. Because they frequently target people around the feet and lower legs, residents often refer to them as “ankle biters.”

Established infestations in Santa Barbara County would cause severe irritation and discomfort for local residents.  

“With multiple Aedes specimens detected across South County, we are at a critical turning point,” said Brian Cabrera, general manager of the MVMD. “The combination of recent rainfall and warm temperatures creates ideal breeding conditions, making immediate action essential to prevent these aggressive biters from permanently establishing in our neighborhoods.

“Residents are our most effective line of defense; you can help stop an infestation by eliminating all standing water around your home and reporting any daytime mosquito activity to the district immediately,” Cabrera 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 encouraged to ensure their pets are protected. Preventative medications are readily available through local veterinarians.
 
Both invasive species prefer to stay close to human dwellings. Females lay eggs in almost anything that holds stagnant water, including buckets, tires, birdbaths, pet dishes, potted plant saucers, clogged yard drains, and water trapped inside plants like bromeliads.

Remarkably, larvae can complete their development in as little water as a single bottle cap, and their eggs can resist drying out for months, MVMD officials said
 
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 standing water in your neighborhood, report it immediately.

Call the MVMD, 805-969-5050, or submit a report through the Contact Us page at mvmdistrict.org.  

The MVMD is an independent local government agency offering community-based services funded through local taxes, with governance provided by a board of trustees. For more information, visit mvmdistrict.org.