What is the Mosquito Ambassador Program?

The Mosquito Ambassador Program (MAP) is a citizen science initiative of the INHS Medical Entomology Lab that invites individuals and families to learn about mosquito ecology and help track the range of invasive mosquito species by collecting eggs throughout the state. The program’s objectives are to spread awareness of mosquito-borne diseases, empower individuals to assist with mosquito prevention in their neighborhoods, and implement a passive mosquito surveillance system for Illinois.

What we do

The INHS Medical Entomology Lab annually performs mosquito surveillance throughout the state, but we need your help to survey even more locations! The lab will provide the necessary materials for you to collect mosquito eggs right in your backyard. After you make the egg collections and record some additional data, you will send the eggs back to the lab for us to hatch, rear to adulthood, and identify the different species.

Get involved

The Illinois Natural History Survey Medical Entomology Lab is recruiting Illinois residents aged 18 years or older to participate in the Mosquito Ambassador Program. The objectives of this citizen science program are to 1.) determine participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices surrounding mosquitoes and the diseases they spread, and 2.) have participants assist in collecting mosquito eggs at their place of residence to assist with mosquito surveillance throughout the state. Participation will include a one-time survey and mosquito egg collection for 1 week. Egg collection materials will be provided and are available at hubs throughout the state; participants only need to provide a postage stamp for mailing the samples. For any questions or concerns, please contact Kylee Noel at krnoel@illinois.edu or 217.300.5941.

We are working to incorporate even more ways for Illinois residents to participate in mosquito research, so make sure to check back for additional opportunities!