Insects That Are Good Indicators of Water

Mosquitoes

• Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. The eggs hatch and develop into pupae that live in water and emerge at the water's surface to breed. Mosquitoes require only a small amount of water to lay their eggs. A bird bath, small pond, damp gutter or puddle are common egg-laying choices for these blood-sucking insects. If you've recently experienced a mosquito infestation, there is standing water somewhere in or near your yard.

Water-Measurer

• Water-measurers are among the most common water insects in the United States. Frequently referred to as water skimmers or water skates, they have long, slender bodies and jointed legs. They can walk across the top of water and prey on smaller insects and fish. They can inflict a painful bite but aren't aggressive toward people unless they are threatened. Because these insects require water both to feed and to breed, the presence of this insect normally indicates a body of water such as a lake or pond is nearby.

Dragonflies and Damselflies

• Dragonflies and damselflies are closely related insects with long, slim bodies and wide, brightly colored wings. They lay their eggs in water and their pupae live in or near water. Consequently, adults prefer to live near bodies of water and are frequently seen near beaches. They also congregate at lakes and ponds. These insect fill an important ecological niche and feed on many pests, notably mosquitoes.

Water Scorpion

• Water scorpions are not actually scorpions, but are named for their scorpion-like appearance. They have oval-shaped bodies with large mouthparts used for pinching and grasping food. They live primarily in water, where they lay their eggs, but may emerge from the water for short periods of time. Water scorpions are carnivores that feed on small fish, tadpoles and other insects. They live in freshwater streams, lakes and ponds.