Exploring the Ozarks Outdoors: freshare.net

Rainy Spell Brings Out Fire Ants, Mosquitoes

By University of Arkansas

First posted on 10-05-2009


By Kelli Reep for the U of A Division of Agriculture


The weeks of wet weather have had an impact on Arkansas’ insect population, said Dr. John Hopkins, extension entomologist with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.

“Insect pests are affected just as much as humans are by weather,” he said. “When we have periods of hot, dry weather, some insects, in their search for moisture, may find what they need inside your home, whether it’s in small plumbing leaks, condensation on refrigerators, etc.

“Conversely, when we have particularly wet weather for extended periods of time, some insects will look for dry ground, and sometimes that means your patio, inside your home or business,” Hopkins said.

Once the rain stops, fire ants begin rebuilding their flood-damaged homes.

“A lot of people have noticed fire ant mounds springing up following a rain,” he said. “The fire ant colony may have been there all along, just unnoticed. With the ants actively repairing their mound after a rain, these mounds can grow rapidly and become more noticeable.”

Arkansans have also come to realize that standing bodies of water are breeding grounds for mosquitoes and with inches of rainfall and mild temperatures as we enter Autumn, these tiny biters will be around for awhile longer.

Some ways to combat these pests:

* Remove areas of standing water around the home and be aware of anything on the property that can collect rainwater.

* Store objects that collect rainwater upside down so water does not collect.

* Check flowerpots for excess water.

* Change the water in birdbaths and pet water containers regularly.

* Keep gutters free of leaves and other debris that prevent water from draining.

* Correct drainage problems in the yard to prevent rainwater from pooling.

* Correct or report drainage problems in ditches along public or private roadways..

For more information about pests, rain and gardening, visit extension’s Web site, http://www.uaex.edu, or contact your county extension agent. 

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