What is a common breeding site for Aedes albopictus?

The common breeding site for Aedes albopictus, also known as the Asian tiger mosquito, is typically found in artificial containers that hold standing water. Bird baths serve as an excellent example of such environments. These shallow standing water sources can provide a perfect habitat for mosquito eggs to be laid and for larvae to develop, as they allow for both moisture and shelter from predators.

In contrast, while natural bodies of water like large lakes, wetlands, or natural rivers might support various mosquito species, Aedes albopictus specifically prefers smaller, more contained environments where water is stagnant, especially in urban settings. These conditions make bird baths a prime target because they are often overlooked in terms of mosquito control, thus contributing to the mosquito's life cycle and population increase in residential areas.