Those Pesky Mosquitoes.....

It happens to the best of us.  You’re in the middle of a sentence and “thwack” someone gets you across the face.  You didn’t say anything offensive; you simply had a mosquito sucking the life out of your cheek…..

Considering how late the snow stayed in our area, I had the high hopes that our late bout of cold had killed the little buggers off….but no, apparently all the water left laying around is simply perfect breeding grounds.  Picking up kids from school or going to play soccer has become somewhat of a slap fest as we douse ourselves in bug spray or better yet, are able to track down some of the handy new clip on kinds.  Regardless, they are pesky little bugs that can take a lot of fun out of finally being able to get some time outdoors in the sun.

So what can you do to help keep away the pests?

• In Edmonton, report any standing bodies of water in residential areas by calling 311 or emailing treebugs@edmonton.ca
• Contrary to popular belief it is still, stagnant water that are the worst breeding grounds, not lakes or wetlands in the area which also house many mosquito predators.
• Containers such as old tires, rain barrels and eavestroughs can be perfect breeding grounds, so inspect these areas for larvae and keep them drained.
• Adult mosquitoes love tall grass, underbrush and weeds as it provides the perfect shelter and humidity that they need to survive.  Keep these areas trimmed or removed, especially around ornamental ponds or pools.
• Consider adding fish that eat mosquito larvae to ponds.
• Mosquitoes are most active at dusk or after dark.
• Loose fitting, light colored clothes will reduce biting.
• Babies should have netting over strollers as they are especially prone to bites.

Last summer I actually tried the “Listerine Control”, and seemed quite effective without harmful chemicals.  Simply put some Listerine Mouth Wash (must be the old school yellow kind) into a spray bottle and spray perimeters.  If your yard seems infested, it’s worth the shot.

Each hatching lasts roughly 3 weeks and then unless there is a heavy rain, the numbers will taper considerably…..here’s hoping for a great, dry, mosquito free summer!