Portland, Oregon, has been experiencing large amounts of mosquitoes and is expected to reach a new record for the number of mosquitoes in the area this year. What is causing so many mosquitoes in this specific area?
Each year, Multnomah County treats large areas with BTI, a naturally occurring soil bacteria that kills mosquito larvae. The supervisor at Multnomah County Vector Control, Levi Zahn, said there were regulatory issues out of the county’s control when spraying the area this year. Because of this, mosquito larvae have spread rapidly. Because Portland had a scorching spring with limited rainfall, “floodwater” mosquitoes developed and spread much faster than in the past.
Around this time of year last year, twenty-five to fifty mosquitoes were caught per trap per night. Currently, traps are getting thousands of mosquitoes. At this time, Multnomah County is giving out free mosquito fish, a small live-bearing fish that feasts on mosquito larvae, to help limit and reduce the mosquito population.
At this point, scientists have not seen any sign of West Nile Virus. To continue to keep yourself safe, take all preventative measures possible to detract mosquitoes from you. Fans and citronella candles are a great way to repel mosquitoes. Fans that circulate make it difficult for mosquitoes to fly. Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide, the chemical exhaled by humans. When running a circulating fan, carbon dioxide diffuses in the air, making it harder for mosquitoes to find their target.
Another way to protect yourself from mosquito bites is to wear protective clothing. By wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, mosquitoes have less of a chance to draw blood. It is also advised to stay inside during dawn and dusk. Most mosquito species in the United States are the most active during these times.
If you are experiencing large amounts of mosquitoes in your area, contact your local Insight Pest Solutions! Our mosquito control treatment will help prevent larvae from hatching and keep the mosquitoes at bay.
By staying updated with announcements from Multnomah County, you can stay informed and safe this summer. Follow along with local news broadcasts for further information or needed precautions.
