Mosquito mysteries, from itchy bites to why some people get targeted
This preview, based only on the episode’s published notes, points to a kid-friendly Q&A all about mosquitoes. Expect answers on biting, itching, scratching, why some people attract more mosquitoes, how to avoid them, and whether mosquitoes help the world at all.
This episode looks like a focused, listener-driven guide to one of the most annoying creatures around: mosquitoes. Based on the show notes alone, it promises to tackle the big practical questions people actually have, including why mosquitoes bite, why bites itch, and whether scratching makes things better or worse. It also seems especially useful if you’ve ever wondered why mosquitoes seem obsessed with some people but ignore others. The notes suggest the episode will explore what makes certain people more appealing to mosquitoes, along with ways to keep them away. That makes this sound like a mix of biology, everyday health curiosity, and real-world tips. Another intriguing angle is the bigger-picture question: are mosquitoes actually good for the world? That hints the episode may go beyond simple pest complaints and look at mosquitoes as part of nature, which could make it a good pick for listeners who like science with a broader ecological lens. The show notes also mention that the Hoax Hunters make another appearance, so fans of that recurring segment may have an extra reason to tune in. If you’re deciding whether to listen, this seems like a strong choice for curious kids, families, or anyone who wants approachable science answers about a very familiar summer problem. This is a preview based on the published description, not a recap of the audio itself.
About this episode
In this episode, we're tackling all the mosquito questions that have been bugging our listeners. Why do they bite? Why do the bites itch? Is scratching them a good idea? Why do some people seem to be more delicious to mosquitoes? How can we keep them away from us? And are mosquitoes good for the world? The Hoax Hunters also make another hoax-tastic appearance. Want to support the show? Join Smarty Pass for ad-free episodes, hangouts, discounts and more! Want to see Brains On live?!? We are probably coming to a city near you. For a complete list of shows and links to tickets head to our events page. Fall 2026 show announcement coming soon!