Residents in parts of El Segundo say a persistent mosquito infestation has made daily life difficult since November, bringing sleepless nights, frequent bites, and growing frustration across the neighborhood.

Some neighbors say they are trying anything for relief — from handheld vacuums and portable bug zappers to home remedies like bowls of lemongrass near the bed. Many describe the insects as unusually small and hard to avoid, both outdoors and indoors.

Officials and residents believe the mosquitoes may be Aedes aegypti, an invasive species that has expanded across Southern California over the past decade. Unlike larger mosquitoes that are most active around dawn and dusk, Aedes aegypti are often active throughout the day and can bite indoors, earning them the nickname “ankle biters.”

El Segundo Mayor Chris Pimentel said the city has been coordinating with neighboring agencies and the local vector control district to locate and address possible breeding sources. Residents in the most impacted area suspect the issue may be tied to a nearby strip of land that borders LADWP property and the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant, though the source has been difficult to confirm.

Pimentel said the city and vector control teams have identified some problem areas, but believe there may be additional sources contributing to ongoing mosquito activity. He also noted that testing has not indicated a disease outbreak connected to these mosquitoes — a reassurance that still feels “cold comfort” to residents dealing with welts and repeated bites.

Neighbors say conditions have improved slightly at times, but relief has been inconsistent: one night may be calmer, followed by a sudden surge the next. Residents continue to hope that coordinated efforts will pinpoint the breeding source and bring lasting relief.