Over the last decade, remote sensing technologies and geographical informat
ion systems have moved from the research arena into the hands of vector con
trol specialists. This review explains remote sensing approaches and spatia
l information technologies used for investigations of arthropod pests and v
ectors of diseases affecting humans and livestock. Relevant applications ar
e summarized with examples of studies on African horse sickness vector Culi
coides midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), malaria vector Anopheles and arbo
virus vector culicine mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae), leishmaniasis vector
Phlebotomus sandflies (Diptera: Psychodidae), trypanosomiasis vector tsets
e (Diptera: Glossinidae), loaiasis vector Chrysops (Diptera: Tabanidae), Ly
me disease vector Ixodes and other ticks (Acari: Ixodidae). Methods their u
ses are tabulated and discussed with recommendations for efficiency, cautio
n and progress in this burgeoning field.