A recent study from the University of Florida explores how changes in lizard populations could influence mosquito behavior and, ultimately, human health. Researchers found that brown anoles, small lizards commonly found in Florida, are frequent mosquito targets. By feeding on anoles, mosquitoes may be less likely to bite birds—key carriers of diseases like West Nile virus.

However, the arrival of an invasive lizard species, the Peter’s rock agama, has displaced the brown anole. Unlike anoles, agamas hide at night, reducing mosquito access to reptile blood. Scientists suspect this shift could drive mosquitoes to bite birds more often, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne disease transmission to humans.

Los Angeles County, like Florida, faces risks from invasive species and warming temperatures that may extend mosquito season. Understanding how ecological changes affect mosquito feeding habits is critical to disease prevention efforts.

To reduce mosquito populations, residents should eliminate standing water, use insect repellent, and report mosquito activity to local vector control authorities. Small ecological changes can have far-reaching effects, and proactive mosquito control remains essential for public health.