When outdoors in North Texas during this time of year, dealing with mosquitoes is a common challenge.
“I’ve already got plenty of bites,” remarked bridge painter John Warren.
He and his crew discussed the nuisance. “They’re a problem and they eat me up out here sometimes,” added bridge painter Paul Black.
The unusually wet spring has led to a surge in the mosquito population. “All the rain we’ve had has created numerous breeding sites or habitats for mosquitoes to thrive,” explained Sonja Swiger, an entomologist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
In response, Dallas and Tarrant counties, along with several cities, have initiated nighttime spraying to control mosquitoes. Some areas have detected West Nile Virus in mosquito samples.
“We expect to see an increase in mosquitoes that carry West Nile, which is why our programs are actively monitoring them now,” Swiger noted. “We’ll continue surveillance over the next few months, as we’re just entering West Nile season.”
Ironically, drier weather won’t alleviate the issue. “Mosquitoes tend to thrive more in drier conditions because they prefer stagnant, dirty water,” Swiger explained.
To prevent mosquito bites, the CDC recommends using insect repellent containing DEET, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and eliminating any standing water around your home.
The painters are prepared for the challenge. “We’ll be out there this evening,” Warren said. “If we start seeing a bunch of bugs, we’ll just spray ourselves and take precautions.”
