RESIDENTS URGED TO CHECK YARDS AHEAD OF MOZZIE SEASON
Redland City Council is urging residents to take an active role in mosquito management and check their yards for possible breeding sites. Mayor Karen Williams said recent rain coupled with warm weather could provide ideal breeding conditions for the saltmarsh (Aedes vigilax) and container (Aedes notoscriptus) mosquitoes. “Council’s mosquito management team investigates known mosquito breeding sites across Redlands Coast and conducts regular ground and aerial treatments as required,” she said. “We are encouraging residents to help Council in our efforts to reduce mosquito numbers by checking their own yards, especially during the peak breeding season from November to April. “Mosquitoes don’t need much water to breed – even the water at the bottom of a pot plant base is enough. “Now is the perfect time to check your yard and empty water pooling in items such as toys, boats, fallen palm fronds, blocked roof gutters and old tyres. “It’s also timely to check your insect screens are in good condition. “For personal protection from mosquitoes, residents should avoid being outside during peak activity periods at dusk and dawn where possible, use insect repellent and wear light-coloured, long, loose-fitting clothing.” Regional Mosquito Management Group chairman Cr Paul Golle (Division 3) said Council had a year-round program to manage mosquitoes, paying particular attention to coastal, saltmarsh and mangrove areas. “Managing mosquitos is important for both health and amenity,” he said. “In doing this, we target the mosquito larvae or ‘wrigglers’ before they can fly and bite, and start treatment programs as soon as larval breeding is detected,” he said. “Council’s mosquito management team treats about 9500 hectares of land annually via ground and aerial application through the use of helicopters, quad bikes and drones. “We also run an inspection program to monitor larvae numbers and the efficacy of our treatments.” More information is available on Council’s mosquito management webpage