mosquito paths seeking gaps in netting
As shown in these graphs, mosquitoes do not use a completely random search tactic in finding gaps in nets. Rather, they fly at the net, bounce off, and try again in the same general area. The researchers at the University of Central Florida also found that the yellowfever mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti) used in the study did not use visual cues to find gaps in nets. Rather, they come upon holes by sheer chance. The mosquito flies at the net, bounces off, and either reorients to fly at the net again or takes a break. (Image originally published in Dickerson et al 2018, Journal of Insect Science)