This summer, prairie cities in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta faced a surge in mosquito populations, leading to a shortage of bug spray in stores due to high demand. Data from the City of Edmonton revealed a significant increase in mosquitoes, with numbers 15 times higher in July compared to the previous year. This rise, though not a record high, has been noticeable, according to Peter Daly, a biological sciences technologist in Edmonton.
Similarly, Saskatoon and Winnipeg also reported elevated mosquito numbers in July compared to the previous year. Experts attribute this mosquito boom to the record rainfall experienced in southern Ontario this summer. Fiona Hunter, a professor at Brock University, highlighted the prevalence of the Ochlerotatus trivittatus species in southern Ontario this year, favored by the abundant rainfall creating ideal breeding conditions.
The persistent rainfall filled low-lying areas with water, providing ample habitat for these floodwater mosquitoes. Fiona Hunter emphasized the abundance of stagnant water due to the rainy conditions, contributing to the proliferation of mosquitoes. The Greater Toronto Area and other parts of southern Ontario experienced heavy downpours, potentially triggering the hatching of dormant mosquito eggs.
Experts anticipate that as temperatures drop, mosquito populations will decline. Mosquitoes struggle in extreme heat and perish in cold temperatures. Alberta witnessed a reduction in mosquito activity after a recent cold spell, indicating a decrease in numbers. While there may be a temporary resurgence in mosquito activity with rising temperatures, it is unlikely to reach the levels seen in central Canada.
