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Edmonton’s mosquito population has exploded this summer.
According to data collected by the City of Edmonton, the number of mosquitoes in the city is 15 times higher than last year. Currently, about 30 different species have been identified in Edmonton.
In an interview with CBC News on Friday, Mike Jenkins, a senior scientist with the City of Edmonton, said this is the highest number of mosquitoes the city has seen since the early 1980s. However, he noted that the situation could be even worse.
“About a decade of low mosquito numbers meant the egg bank was relatively small,” Jenkins said. “So it’s actually not as bad as it could be.”
Despite the current high mosquito numbers amid a very wet summer, Jenkins said recent rains have also benefited the city as some mosquito species have actually declined in numbers due to the washing away of collected eggs.
He also noted that future seasons could be impacted by this year’s growing egg bank, as mosquito eggs can survive for up to ten years before hatching.
The store owner spoke about the demand for insect repellents
The increase in mosquito populations is accompanied by an increase in demand for insect repellents.
Stacey Bertin, manager of Totem Outdoor Outfitters, said that while people don’t typically come into the store to buy insect repellent, the store receives four to five calls a day asking about bug spray.
“We’re seeing so much demand, but surprisingly there’s not enough supply,” Bertin said, adding that the situation is similar to the hoarding trend seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. “People are buying too much of this.
“But I just don’t think companies will be able to predict it.”
While there are many ways to control mosquitoes, Jenkins said DEET is the most effective and long-lasting. However, he added that it should be used sparingly and only on exposed skin.
He cautioned against plant-based options such as lemon, eucalyptus and catnip oils.
“They work for some people but not others,” Jenkins said. “They are also more likely to experience skin rashes and other adverse reactions than DEET.”
WATCH | Edmonton is experiencing a veritable mosquito outbreak:
Record rain brings swarms of mosquitoes to Edmonton area just in time for summer
June’s record rainfall has led to an explosion of mosquitoes in Edmonton. As Travis McEwan reports, city data shows an early spike in the pesky bug.
As an alternative to chemical methods, Edmonton residents can protect themselves by covering up and staying out at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active, he said.