Urban Myth: Mosquitoes Prefer Blondes

The old adage states that gentlemen prefer blondes, but do mosquitoes? In a word, no. There are many myths about mosquitoes out there, and the idea that they are more attracted to blondes than brunettes or redheads is one of them. But if you are unlucky enough to be a mosquito magnet, this might be why (hint: it’s not your blonde hair).

Why Do Mosquitoes Target Me?

According to research, one in five people are highly attractive to mosquitoes and the truth is, scientists don’t know exactly why. But what they do know is that it’s nothing to do with hair colour. There are around 3500 species of mosquito in the world and different species are attracted to different things.

Although science can’t yet fully explain why mosquitoes bite you and leave the rest of your family alone, researchers have spotted some patterns of behaviour. This is what they’ve noticed that mosquitoes are attracted to.

You’re a Larger Person or You’re Pregnant

Larger people and pregnant people breathe out more carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide attracts mosquitoes. That’s why they typically buzz around your head. Pregnant women also give off more body heat which is another big attraction for mosquitoes.

You’re Exercising Outdoors

Been for a sweaty jog and suddenly got a few mosquitoes around you? People exercising outdoors and breathing heavily will give off more carbon dioxide which attracts them. They’ll also be able to sense the body heat you’re giving off as well as the compounds in your sweat like uric acid.

They Are Attracted to Your Scent

Compounds in your breath and the bacteria on your skin can attract mosquitoes. The chemical makeup of your skin is very individual, but studies have found that certain types of bacteria attract mosquitoes more than others. This explains why mosquitoes like to buzz around ankles and feet where there’s a higher concentration of bacteria.

You Have a Certain Blood Type

Research has found that people with blood type O are attractive to mosquitoes. Scientists think it’s because this blood type contains a particular sugar that mosquitoes like.

You’re Wearing Colours They’re Attracted to

Studies have shown that mosquitoes are attracted to darker or stronger colours like black and red. So if you want to avoid a bite on holiday, maybe rethink your choice of outfit.

You’re Genetically Attractive to Mosquitoes

Now this one you can’t do much about. Mosquitoes seem to be attracted to compounds like cholesterol and if you’re unlucky enough to have high concentrations of it in your skin, you could be a target.

So there you have it. The reason why mosquitoes are attracted to you is nothing to do with your hair colour. But blonde or not, if mosquitoes are becoming a problem in your home or garden, you need professional help.

Got a Mosquito Invasion?

If mosquitos are invading your home and garden in numbers, call in professional pest control. Contego’s expert pest technicians have the knowhow and products to get rid of these irritating pests fast. We guarantee no more ruined summer evenings and no more bites!

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