mosquito's

[mclark123]

why do mosquito's make a buzzing noise?

[alfieblue]

Hi mclark123!

This is interesting post today because I am learning a few facts that i had never even thought of!!

Have just checked my trusty nature book!.If I am reading it correctly it appears that the buzzing noise or incessant drone (and my goodness they are noisy!) comes from the female mosquito - it is produced by the beating of the insect's wings at up to 600 times per second!

The males tune into this using organs called Johnstons organs (at the base of the antennae). The males antennae then vibrate in sympathy and that then triggers its Johnstons organs to the same frequency as the 'noisy' female
this is how the males hear the females.

Apparently to avoid confusion between differenct species of mosquitos, the wings beat at a slightly different frequency.

Phew!!! I may have to have a lie down now with a cold flannel on my head!!!

Hope this answer helps. :o)