This summer, there has been a noticeable increase in mosquito activity in several prairie cities, leading to a shortage of bug spray in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta due to high demand. Data from the City of Edmonton revealed a significant surge in mosquito numbers, reaching 15 times higher in July compared to the previous year. While not record-breaking for the region, this spike contrasted sharply with the past two summers, impacting public perception, as noted by Peter Daly, a biological sciences technologist in Edmonton.
Similarly, Saskatoon and Winnipeg experienced elevated mosquito populations in July compared to the previous year, attributed to the increased rainfall in southern Ontario. Fiona Hunter, a professor specializing in entomology at Brock University, highlighted a rise in the Ochlerotatus trivittatus species in southern Ontario this summer. This floodwater mosquito thrives in wet environments, capitalizing on the abundant rainfalls that created ideal breeding conditions this year.
The persistent biting nature of the Ochlerotatus trivittatus species has led to heightened human-mosquito interactions, contributing to the perception of a severe mosquito season. The heavy rainfall in the Greater Toronto Area and other parts of southern and southwestern Ontario triggered the hatching of dormant mosquito eggs, further fueling the mosquito population growth.
Experts anticipate a decline in mosquito populations with the onset of colder temperatures, as mosquitoes struggle in extreme heat and perish in cold conditions. Alberta, after experiencing a surge in mosquito activity earlier due to heavy rainfall, saw a rapid decline in populations following a cold snap. However, as temperatures rise again, there may be a resurgence, but not to the extent seen in central Canada.
Despite a warm fall in Edmonton, mosquito numbers are gradually decreasing, particularly for the dominant local species, Aedes vexans. The possibility of a resurgence remains as temperatures are forecasted to rise, though not reaching the levels observed in central Canada during this challenging mosquito season.
