Where do mosquitoes typically lay their eggs?

Mosquitoes typically lay their eggs on water surfaces and the sides of containers because these locations provide the ideal environment for the eggs to hatch and develop. Most mosquito species require stagnant or slow-moving water to ensure that the larvae can thrive after hatching. By laying eggs on the water surface or in nearby areas that can collect water, such as the sides of containers, the female mosquito maximizes the chances of successful reproduction. These environments provide essential moisture and protection, allowing the larvae to feed and grow in aquatic conditions that are safe from many terrestrial predators.

Options involving dry land, tree bark, or soil do not offer the necessary aquatic habitat required for mosquito larvae to survive, making them unsuitable for egg-laying. This understanding is crucial for effective mosquito management and control strategies in public health pest control efforts.