Published on Monday, 30 August 2021 at 9:05:45 AM
MOSQUITOS!
The current wet conditions have created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitos.
Mosquito eggs can lay dormant in the ground for up to 7 years. When wet conditions prevail, they form into larvae within 4 days. After another 4 days, mosquitos reach adulthood and then go on to have a remaining lifespan of 10 days.
Control measures using insecticide are as follows:
- Spraying is only carried out in drier conditions with little wind.
- Spraying starts out on 10 consecutive evenings (weather conditions permitting), followed by a 3-day break and then a resumption of another 1 day – and so the control cycle continues.
- If a spraying cycle is interrupted through rainfall, it is deferred until it is dry again and the 10-day spraying cycle recommences followed by a 3-day break and then a resumption of another 1 day – and so the control cycle continues.
It should be borne in mind that mosquitos can travel for up to 7 kilometres, so spraying is sometimes only partly effective and is unlikely to be a complete control measure.
Property owners should ensure that any receptacles containing shallow water such as old tyres, or pot plant saucers should be emptied to deny a breeding ground for mosquitos.
Mosquito spraying can be a large expense for the Shire, depending on the season, however, is seen by many to be a priority. Spraying will commence as soon as the right weather conditions prevail.
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