Richardson Health Department staff and other public health experts have reported an increase in mosquito populations in the area over the past few weeks. The increase was expected due to recent heavy rains and flooding.
The rains created a habitat for floodwater mosquitoes, a species whose laid eggs can wait to hatch for several years until water rises to reach them. Heavy rains also provide great environments for container mosquitoes, whose females lay eggs in anything holding clear, fresh water—buckets, old tires, even a bottle cap. Other potential residential habitats include clogged rain gutters, stagnant swimming pools and leaking irrigation systems.
Though there have been no mosquitoes in Richardson that have tested positive for West Nile virus so far this year, other North Texas cities have experienced positive test results, so it’s always good to practice the Four D’s of Protection to prevent mosquito bites:
- DRAIN standing water around the home
- Use insect repellent containing DEET
- Avoid being outdoors at DUSK/DAWN when mosquitoes are most active
- DRESS with long sleeves and pants to reduce skin exposure
Website: www.cor.net/mosquito
Website: https://agrilifetoday.tamu.edu/2021/05/26/mosquito-populations-booming-after-rains/
