Mosquito Invasion in the Twin Falls Area Likely

According to this forecast, Twin Falls and Southern Idaho can expect to see a rise in the mosquito population.

Pestworld.org has released their annual bug barometer and Idaho, is among several regions who should expect to see a boost among mostitos this spring and summer. Popular Science says this is mostly due to a wet winter that was unusually warm.

Mosquitos are more than a pest, they carry diseases like West Nile and the Zika virus. So far as we know, the only US reports of Zika virus have been associated with travel, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't be doing everything we can to prevent the spread of disease by dealing with the carrier.

Kirk Tubbs with the Twin Falls County Pest Abatement District explains that mosquitos typically travel less than a mile from there they hatch. With that knowledge, there are some really simple things we can do to prevent or reduce the spread of mosquitos.

Probably the most important thing to remember is: Water + 7 Days = Mosquitos. It takes mosquitoes 7 days in standing water to hatch. With this in mind, one of the most important things you can do is eliminate standing water on your property. So check containers around your house that hold water on a regular basis. Things like wading pools, rain barrels, watering troughs and bird baths a breeding ground for mosquitos. And if you have standing water like a pond or trough, get some gold fish. They’ll eat up the larva before they have a chance to develop and fly away.

When you’re outside, consider an insect repellant with DEET, which is considered by many to be the most effective repellent currently available.

Check out the Twin Falls Pest Abatement District Website for more tips and a list of products that can help minimize mosquitoes.

Filed Under: West Nile Virus