In many parts of Australia, mosquito populations explode in the summer months, especially after heavy rains and flooding create stagnant water—the perfect breeding ground for these relentless insects.

We all know mosquitoes are a nuisance, but how much do you really know about them? Do they actually prefer “sweet blood”? Can they bite through your clothing? And is it true that citronella candles will keep them at bay?

Despite being one of the most studied insects in the world, mosquitoes are still surrounded by myths and misinformation. Some of these misconceptions might be harmless, while others could leave you exposed to unnecessary bites—or worse, at risk of disease.

So, let’s separate fact from fiction and bust 11 of the most common mosquito myths—because when it comes to protecting yourself, knowing the truth makes all the difference.

Myth #1: Mosquitoes only bite at night

You’re enjoying a warm afternoon outdoors, soaking up the sun, when suddenly—you feel that all-too-familiar itch. A mosquito bite? But wait, don’t mosquitoes only come out at night?

This is one of the most common mosquito myths, and it’s only half true. While some species are nocturnal, others are active throughout the day, making mosquito bites an issue at any time of day or night.

✅ Fact: Mosquitoes bite at all hours—It just depends on the species

Different mosquito species have different peak activity times, and it all comes down to their breeding and feeding behaviours.

• Night biters: The Anopheles mosquito, which is responsible for spreading malaria, is most active at dusk and night. These mosquitoes tend to hide during the day and emerge as the sun sets.

• Day biters: Aedes mosquitoes, which spread dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya, are aggressive daytime feeders, particularly in the morning and late afternoon.

• All-day biters: Some mosquitoes, like the Culex species, are opportunistic feeders, meaning they’ll bite whenever they get the chance, though they tend to be more active in the evening.

So, if you think mosquitoes won’t bother you during the day, think again! Depending on where you are and which mosquito species are present, you could be at risk of bites around the clock.

Myth #2: Mosquitoes prefer “sweet” blood

You may have heard someone say, "Mosquitoes always bite me because I have sweet blood!" Or perhaps you've even joked about being a mosquito magnet while your friends remain untouched. But is there any truth to the idea that mosquitoes prefer certain people based on how "sweet" their blood is?

✅ Fact: Mosquitoes don’t care about "sweetness"—They’re attracted to CO₂, body heat, and skin chemistry

The truth is, mosquitoes aren’t interested in how sweet your blood tastes—they don’t even have taste buds to appreciate it! What actually attracts them is a complex combination of factors that signal you as a good host.

So, what makes some people mosquito magnets while others are left unbothered? Scientists have identified several key factors:

• Carbon dioxide (CO₂) – Mosquitoes track their targets by detecting the CO₂ you exhale. The more CO₂ you produce, the easier you are to find. This is why pregnant women, athletes, and people with a higher metabolic rate often attract more mosquitoes.

• Body heat and sweat – Mosquitoes seek out warm-blooded hosts, and your body temperature plays a big role in how attractive you are to them. If you're exercising or sweating, your increased heat and moisture make you a prime target.

• Lactic acid and other skin chemicals – When you sweat, your body releases lactic acid and other compounds that mosquitoes find highly appealing. Some people naturally produce higher levels of these chemicals, making them more attractive to mosquitoes than others.

• Blood type matters (but not sweetness) – While the idea of “sweet blood” is a myth, studies suggest that mosquitoes may have a preference for certain blood types. Research indicates that people with Type O blood tend to attract more mosquitoes than those with Type A or B. However, this is just one of many factors (that needs to be researched further) and doesn’t guarantee a person will get bitten more often.

Myth #3: Eating garlic or taking vitamin B1 repels mosquitoes

You might have heard the claim that eating garlic or taking vitamin B1 can make you "invisible" to mosquitoes—as if your body somehow releases a natural repellent through your skin. But does science back this up, or is it just another mosquito myth?

✅ Fact: There’s no scientific evidence that garlic or vitamin B1 keeps mosquitoes away

While garlic and Vitamin B1 (thiamine) have their health benefits, they won’t do much to stop mosquitoes from biting. The idea behind this myth is that eating large amounts of these substances alters your body odour in a way that repels mosquitoes—but studies have found no strong evidence to support this claim.

Garlic: Mildly repellent, but not enough to matter

Garlic does contain sulfur compounds that some insects find unappealing, but the effect is minimal. You’d have to eat an unrealistic amount of garlic for it to make a difference, and even then, mosquitoes rely on CO₂ and skin chemistry far more than scent alone.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): No reliable proof

Some believe that taking Vitamin B1 supplements changes the smell of sweat, making it less appealing to mosquitoes. However, clinical studies have found no conclusive evidence that Vitamin B1 actually repels mosquitoes. Even high doses showed no significant effect.

Vegemite: A tasty myth with no scientific backing

In Australia, some people swear by Vegemite's supposed mosquito-repellent qualities, believing that its high Vitamin B content makes their blood or sweat unattractive to mosquitoes. Unfortunately, this popular belief is also unproven. There's simply no scientific evidence indicating that eating Vegemite has any measurable impact on mosquito bites.

The reality? If garlic, Vegemite or Vitamin B1 truly worked as mosquito repellents, they’d be included in mainstream protection strategies—and they’re not.

Myth #4: Only female mosquitoes bite

You’ve probably heard that only female mosquitoes are responsible for those itchy bites—but is that really true? Do male mosquitoes ever bite, or are they just flying around aimlessly?

✅ Fact: Yes, only female mosquitoes bite—Males stick to plant-based diets

This myth is actually true! Male mosquitoes don’t bite humans or animals at all—they feed exclusively on nectar, plant sap, and other natural sugars. It’s the females that are responsible for seeking out blood meals, and there’s a very specific reason why.

Why do female mosquitoes bite?

Blood isn’t for food—it’s for reproduction. Female mosquitoes need the proteins and iron found in blood to develop their eggs. After feeding, a female will lay her eggs in standing water, then return to bite again when she’s ready for another batch. Without a blood meal, female mosquitoes can’t reproduce, which is why they are so persistent in tracking down a host.

Why don’t male mosquitoes bite?

Male mosquitoes don’t have the mouthparts needed to pierce skin—their proboscis (mouth structure) is designed for drinking nectar, not sucking blood. Instead of hunting for hosts, males spend their short lives feeding on flowers and looking for mates.

So next time a mosquito lands on you for a bite, you can be sure it’s a female—the males are too busy enjoying a much sweeter diet.

Myth #5: Mosquitoes die after biting you

Many people believe that mosquitoes meet their end after biting a human, much like bees that die after stinging. It would certainly be satisfying to think that each bite is a mosquito’s last, but is there any truth to this idea?

✅ Fact: Mosquitoes can bite multiple times and keep feeding

Unlike bees, mosquitoes don’t die after biting—in fact, a single mosquito can bite multiple times in one feeding session. Once a mosquito has fed, it will simply move on, digest the blood, and prepare to bite again.

Why can mosquitoes bite more than once?

Their mouthparts are designed for feeding, not stinging. A female mosquito’s needle-like proboscis allows it to pierce the skin, extract blood, and then withdraw without causing fatal damage to itself. If interrupted, the mosquito will seek out another host. If you swat a mosquito away before it’s finished feeding, it will simply land on another area of exposed skin and continue feeding. Once a female has had a full blood meal, she will rest for a few days to digest before laying eggs—but after that, she’ll be ready to bite again.

How long does a mosquito live?

• A female mosquito can live for several weeks, feeding multiple times throughout her lifespan.

• Male mosquitoes don’t bite and have a much shorter lifespan, typically only living about a week.

Myth #6: Mosquitoes are attracted to light

We’ve all seen moths, flies, and other insects swarming around porch lights at night, so it’s easy to assume that mosquitoes are drawn to light in the same way. This belief has even led to the widespread use of bug zappers and yellow “mosquito-repellent” light bulbs. But do mosquitoes really seek out light, or is this another misconception?

✅ Fact: Mosquitoes are more attracted to body heat, CO₂, and sweat than light

While some flying insects are phototactic (meaning they are naturally drawn to light), mosquitoes don’t rely on light to find their next meal. Instead, they use a combination of smell, temperature, and movement to detect humans and animals.

What actually attracts mosquitoes?

As we’ve established before, mosquitoes are attracted to:

• Carbon dioxide (CO₂

• Body heat

• Lactic acid & sweat

• Movement

Myth #7: Citronella candles will keep mosquitoes away completely

It’s a common scene in summer—a backyard barbecue, a patio dinner, or a camping trip, with citronella candles flickering in the background, promising to ward off mosquitoes. Many people rely on citronella as a natural mosquito repellent, but can a few scented candles really keep these persistent pests away for good?

✅ Fact: Citronella candles may help, but they are not a foolproof solution

While citronella does have some mosquito-repelling properties, it is not strong enough or long-lasting enough to provide complete protection on its own.

Why citronella works—but only to a certain extent

• Citronella oil masks human scent – The scent of citronella can help obscure the smells that attract mosquitoes, such as carbon dioxide and body heat, making it harder for them to detect people nearby.

• It only works in small areas – Citronella candles are most effective in enclosed or wind-free spaces, where the scent can linger long enough to make a difference.

• Its effectiveness fades quickly – As the candle burns, the citronella scent disperses into the air, but not in a concentrated enough amount to truly deter mosquitoes over a long period.

• Wind and outdoor conditions reduce its potency – A slight breeze or open space can dilute the citronella scent quickly, making it far less effective.

What studies say about citronella candles

• Research has found that citronella-based repellents can reduce mosquito landings, but only for a short period and within a limited range.

• One study showed that citronella candles provided only about 50% protection compared to commercial insect repellents like DEET or picaridin, which offer far superior results.

• If the candle contains a lower concentration of citronella oil, its effectiveness drops even further.

Myth #8: Mosquitoes can’t bite through clothes

Many people assume that as long as they’re wearing clothes, they’re safe from mosquito bites. After all, if your skin is covered, mosquitoes shouldn’t be able to get to it—right? Unfortunately, this is not entirely true.

✅ Fact: Mosquitoes can bite through thin or tight-fitting fabric

While wearing clothing does provide a layer of protection, it doesn’t make you completely immune to mosquito bites. Mosquitoes have sharp, needle-like mouthparts (proboscis) that can pierce through certain fabrics, especially if the material is thin, stretchy, or tight against the skin.

How mosquitoes manage to bite through clothes

• Thin fabrics make it easy – Lightweight materials like leggings, T-shirts, or sheer fabrics don’t provide enough of a barrier to stop mosquito mouthparts from reaching your skin.

• Tight clothing makes it worse – If fabric is pressed closely against your skin (like leggings or skinny jeans), mosquitoes can easily pierce through it and reach blood vessels underneath.

• Some mosquito species are more persistent – Certain mosquitoes, like Aedes mosquitoes (which spread dengue and Zika), are more aggressive biters and can penetrate a wider range of fabrics than others.

Myth #9: Mosquitoes serve no purpose in nature

Let’s be honest—if mosquitoes disappeared overnight, most of us wouldn’t miss them. They’re annoying, relentless, and responsible for spreading some of the world’s deadliest diseases. It’s easy to believe that they have no real value in nature and that the world would be better off without them.

✅ Fact: Mosquitoes do have a role in the ecosystem—but that doesn’t mean we have to like them

While it might be tempting to think of mosquitoes as completely useless, they do play a role in the environment—though their importance varies depending on the species.

How mosquitoes contribute to nature

• They’re a food source for other animals – Mosquitoes, particularly in their larval stage, are a crucial food source for fish, frogs, birds, bats, and other insect-eating species. Many ecosystems depend on mosquitoes as part of the food chain.

• They help with pollination – While we associate mosquitoes with biting, male mosquitoes don’t feed on blood at all—they survive on nectar and plant juices. In doing so, they unknowingly contribute to pollination, though their impact is much smaller compared to bees and butterflies.

• They influence ecosystems in unexpected ways – Mosquito larvae help break down organic material in stagnant water, playing a role in nutrient recycling in wetland environments.

Myth #10: Mosquitoes prefer dark colours

Someone might have said that wearing dark colours makes you more likely to get bitten by mosquitoes, while lighter clothing supposedly keeps them away. But is there any science behind this, or is it just another mosquito myth?

✅ Fact: Mosquitoes use visual cues, and dark colours make you more noticeable

While mosquitoes primarily rely on carbon dioxide (CO₂), body heat, and scent to locate their targets, they also use visual cues to find potential hosts—especially during the daytime when species like Aedes aegypti (which spreads dengue and Zika) are most active.

Why do dark colours attract more mosquitoes?

• Dark colours absorb and retain more heat – Black, navy blue, and red trap more warmth, making the wearer stand out to mosquitoes, which are highly sensitive to temperature differences.

• Mosquitoes use contrast to spot hosts – During the day, mosquitoes rely on their vision to detect movement and silhouettes. Darker clothing creates a stronger contrast against bright backgrounds, making you more visible to them.

• Bright or light-coloured clothing blends in more easily – Wearing white, beige, pastels, or other light shades makes you less of a visual target for mosquitoes.

Myth #11: Drinking gin and tonic keeps mosquitoes away

If you've ever enjoyed sipping on a gin and tonic, you might have heard the story about how this popular drink could help fight off malaria. But was it the gin itself or something else entirely?

✅ Fact: Gin and tonic doesn’t stop mosquito bites (Though tonic once had anti-malarial properties)

Historically, tonic water contained a key ingredient known as quinine, derived from the bark of the cinchona tree. Quinine was widely used in the past as an effective treatment for malaria, as it was toxic to the parasites causing the disease. British colonists in tropical climates often mixed quinine with gin, giving birth to the classic gin and tonic. However, even back then, quinine’s effectiveness was strictly against the parasites themselves, not mosquitoes. In fact, there’s no evidence that drinking tonic water or gin can actually repel mosquitoes or prevent bites.

Today, tonic water contains only minimal amounts of quinine—not enough to offer any protective effect against malaria or mosquito bites.

Conclusion: Separating mosquito myths from facts

Mosquitoes have been pestering humans for centuries, and over time, plenty of myths have sprung up about how they behave, what attracts them, and how to keep them away. But as we’ve uncovered, many of these so-called “truths” don’t hold up under scientific scrutiny.

What you really need to know:

✅ Mosquitoes bite day and night—it depends on the species.

✅ They don’t go after “sweet blood”—they’re attracted to CO₂, body heat, and sweat.

✅ They won’t die after biting you—females keep feeding until they’re full.

✅ Citronella candles won’t offer full protection—but a good repellent will.

✅ Dark clothing makes you more noticeable—light colours can help, but they’re not a guarantee against bites.

How to stay bite-free

Since mosquitoes are persistent, the best way to protect yourself is through a combination of proven strategies:

• Use an effective mosquito repellent—DEET, picaridin, or natural alternatives like lemon tea tree oil.

• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.

• Eliminate standing water—since mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water, reducing breeding sites will help keep their numbers down.

• Mosquito-proof your home—install screens on doors and windows, and you can even use mosquito repellent gel diffusers with fans to keep them at bay.

Shop Your Mosquito-Protection Kit

So, the next time you hear a mosquito myth being passed around, you’ll know what’s fact, what’s fiction, and—most importantly—how to actually keep mosquitoes away!

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Tags

Health & Wellbeing Insect Repellent Mosquito Mosquito-borne diseases Safety & Protection Summer Tips