Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Plant Sciences, Zoology & Evolution => Topic started by: Justin Smith on 01/03/2011 15:30:03

Title: Why are mosquitoes so noisy?
Post by: Justin Smith on 01/03/2011 15:30:03

Justin Smith asked the Naked Scientists:
   
Hi Chris,

If a predator uses stealth to catch its prey, then why is a mosquito so noisy when it relies on blood for its food?  Surely the damn things should be quiet and sneak in, take my blood and zoom off? Is there anything else out there that is a meat eater that announces that it's on its way to feed?
 
Regards,

Justin Smith

What do you think?

Title: Why are mosquitoes so noisy?
Post by: grizelda on 02/03/2011 08:04:32

I think it's only the females that bite, something to do with pregnancy. And only the males buzz but they don't bite, they're just hanging around looking for females. Sometimes it seems to me the males distract your attention to one side while the female sneaks in for a meal on the other, so it may be a tag-team thing.

Title: Why are mosquitoes so noisy?
Post by: Dasyatis on 02/03/2011 14:38:44

I'd say mosquitos are still pretty stealthy. You can't hear a mosquito biting your foot, can you?