There are instances when a homeowner calls to report problems with mosquitoes and what appears to be a mosquito is actually another type of insect. The most commonly encountered look-a-likes are midges (gnats). These insects frequently form swarms and are also attracted to lights in large numbers. These insects do not bite but can still be very annoying. For information on the biology and identification of insects that look like mosquitoes see the diagram below.
Typical Mosquito
Uses its proboscis to bite (needle-like piercing mouthparts).
Wings are longer than body.
Always develops in water.
May carry diseases.
Rests on objects with its body not touching the surface.
Chironomid Midge
Chironomid Midge
Cannot bite (has no proboscis).
Wings are shorter than body.
Develops in mud on the bottom of lakes and ponds.
Do not carry diseases.
Rests on objects with its body usually touching the surface.
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Website Accessibility Policy
Napa County Mosquito Abatement District is fully committed to providing accessible facilities, elements and
channels of communication to all members of the public. As part of this commitment, Napa County Mosquito Abatement District
has a policy of providing an accessible website compatible with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1) and
commercial screen reading software. All features of the website are coded to allow individuals with vision and
other impairments to understand and use the website to the same degree as someone without disabilities. We welcome
feedback and can often resolve issues in a timely manner if they arise.
If you need any special assistance or accommodations:
Napa County Mosquito Abatement District has designated a compliance officer for website disability-related accommodations.
The compliance officer has received training in website accessibility and updates the site in accordance with those best
practices. Contact our accessibility officer to report an issue.
Compliance Procedures and Reports
In addition to testing with users with a wide range of disabilities and coding our website to WCAG standards,
Napa County Mosquito Abatement District regularly scans its website to ensure ongoing compliance, and makes timely
changes to any inaccessible changes, if any are found.
Linked Documents and Third Parties
Please note that this site may link out to third-party websites, such as state or federal agencies, that do
not have accessible content. This site may also include documents provided by third parties included in our
agenda packets, for example. While we cannot control the accessibility of content provided by third parties,
we are happy to assist any member of the public with reading and accessing content on our site.
