Which mosquito species is known for primarily feeding on birds but can also affect mammals including humans?

Culiseta melanura is known for its primary feeding habits on birds, but it has also been observed to feed on mammals, including humans, under certain circumstances. This species plays a significant role in the transmission of diseases like Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) due to its strong association with avian hosts.

While Cx quinquefasciatus and Culex pipiens are generalists that can feed on both birds and mammals, their primary vectors are often more aligned with human infection. Anopheles quadrimaculatus is primarily known for its role in malaria transmission, focusing more on humans and not as much on birds.

Culiseta melanura's particular feeding preference highlights its ecological role in disease dynamics, especially in areas where bird populations can serve as reservoirs for viruses that may impact human health. This unique feeding behavior makes it an important species for public health surveillance and understanding vector-host interactions.