In the News - October 2009
Rainy spell brings out fire ants, mosquitoes
LITTLE ROCK - 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, www.uaex.edu, or contact
your county extension agent.
The Cooperative Extension Service is a part of the University of Arkansas
Division of Agriculture and offers its programs to all eligible persons
regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability,
marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status, and is an
Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer..
October 2, 2009
By Kelli Reep
For the U of A Division of Agriculture
Media Contact: Mary Hightower
Extension Communications Specialist
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
(501) 671-2126
mhightower@uaex.edu
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