Mosquito Guttersnipe: A New Sampling Tool for Roof Gutters, Tree Holes, and Other Elevated Mosquito Habitats

Abstract

Mosquitoes pose health risks to human populations by serving as vectors of diseases. Mosquito control organizations are responsible for inspecting and controlling vector populations to reduce the risk of infection of these diseases. Current sampling methods are effective for numerous types of mosquito habitat, but not conducive for sampling small overhead habitat such as roof gutters or tree holes. We have developed and tested a tool called the Mosquito GutterSnipe to sample these overhead habitats. Volumetric and larval capacity testing of the tool prototype demonstrated comparable sampling integrity to standard mosquito dipping methods. The GutterSnipe can be employed as a reliable way to sample previously overlooked mosquito habitat. Its current model is cost effective and easy to produce for mosquito control organizations and easy to use for inspectors.