It is clear that the seasonal population dynamics and behaviour of insects and other vectors should be considered in models of vector-borne pathogens. Further data are required to model these adequately, particularly for the behavioural ecology of vectors. These models would then be more valuable for exploring the transmission cycles and development of control strategies. However, it is important to recognize that it is impossible to do everything at once, and all components of vector and host biology cannot and should not be included in every model. Models with many parameters, all of which have high variability, are difficult to analyse. However, it is important to be explicit in model assumptions and, when excluding vector seasonality or behaviour from the model, ensure that it is intentional and not simply by omission. There is a long-standing tradition of incorporating aspects of models from other disciplines into models of vector-borne pathogens, and this is useful when including behaviour, seasonality and other complex interactions in these models. Spatial structure, dispersal and foraging behaviour have been studied extensively in parasitoids (e.g. Wilson & Hassell, 1997; Hassell, 2000; Olson et al., 2000). Demographic stochasticity, variable time periods, seasonal structures and individual behaviour have been considered in the epidemiology of directly transmitted pathogens (e.g. Earn et al., 1998; Keeling & Grenfell, 1998, 2000; Grenfell et al., 2001; Lloyd, 2001). Models of ecological systems increasingly incorporate stochastic effects, spatial structure, community structure and dispersal (e.g. Sklar & Costanza, 1990; Ives et al., 1999; South, 1999; Bjornstad & Grenfell, 2001; King & Schaffer, 2001; Wiegand et al., 2001; Keeling et al., 2002). There are exciting opportunities for considering these ecological factors in vector-borne diseases and exploring the impact on pathogen transmission. The research discussed here provides examples of how some of these aspects can be incorporated into models of vector-borne pathogens. Considering complex structures and models in other disciplines and incorporating relevant aspects into models of vector-borne pathogens will improve the understanding of transmission.