Mosquito season ramping up because of rain

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Most of Siouxland has seen heavy rain in the past few weeks, leading to a lot of standing water, which is a prime breeding ground for mosquitoes. Experts say we could see a significant increase in the mosquito population in about two weeks.

Not only are mosquitoes a nuisance, but in some cases, they can pose a danger. The state detected the first West Nile virus-positive mosquito pool in Brookings County last week.

“We’ve had mosquitoes already; the Department of Health is trapping and monitoring; you know we’ve had a West Nile Virus pool test positive up in Brookings County; just like any other summer in South Dakota, it is important to take precautions against mosquitoes,” said SDSU Extension Urban Entomologist Amanda Bachmann.

In Sioux Falls crews are targeting standing water around the city to kill mosquito larvae before they hatch and try to feed on us. They treat the water with a naturally occurring biological larvacide called BTI.

“And they’ve used that to treat the ponds,” said Domonic Miller with the Sioux Falls Health Department. “And the larva ingest that and it stops their growth. So that’s where they are putting a lot their focus on identifying those areas and trying to prevent the mosquitoes from becoming adults.”

You can also buy your own larvacide at stores like Ace or a big box store.

A single old tire full of water can produce 10,000 mosquitoes in a summer season. The rain gutters on your house, ornamental ponds and buckets left outside can also lead to a lot of mosquitoes in your yard. Bachmann says the main carriers of West Nile Virus often appear after sunset.

“Cluex Tarsalus is our main vector of West Nile Virus in South Dakota, and that one is going to be active from dusk until dawn, so as it gets dark, that is when that mosquito comes out and starts feeding so try to get your watering and your yard work done before it starts getting dark,” said Bachmann.

Bachman says to protect yourself with an EPA-approved mosquito repellant and wear long sleeves and pants. On an interesting note, the drug maker Pfizer’s website says that mosquitoes are attracted to some colors more than others. Expect to get a bit more if you wear orange, red, or black.

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