Conditions right for surge in mosquitoes

A wet spring, increased standing water from flooding and warmer weather are the perfect conditions for mosquitoes to breed in the Okanagan, says the Regional District of Central Okanagan.

Since early April, crews have been monitoring and treating mosquito larvae in about 200 known breeding locations across the Central Okanagan as part of the regional district’s mosquito control program.

Officials are expecting to see more mosquito larvae and potentially more mosquitoes hatching this season. “With all the spring rain and flooding in the Central Okanagan, there’s a lot of water sitting around in fields and low-lying areas, which boosts the chances of developing mosquitoes,” said Curtis Fediuk, president of Duka Environmental, which provides all larval mosquito control under contract with the regional district. The mosquito season typically peaks mid-June through the end of July, he said. Residents are advised to remove standing water sources and unused items that collect water. “Just a few milimetres of water is all that’s needed for mosquito larva to survive and hatch into biting mosquitoes,” said Bruce Smith, with the regional district. “Rain barrels should be covered with a screen to prevent mosquitoes from laying their eggs in the water (and) at least twice a week, drain standing water from containers under plant pots or in garbage cans and change the water in bird baths, wading pools and pet bowls.”

In the coming weeks, more than 10,000 roadside catch basins will be checked for mosquito larvae and treated if necessary. Residents can report concerns with mosquitoes by calling 1-800-6813472 or by going online to: regionaldistrict.com/mosquitoes.