First Culex tarsalis found among growing mosquito numbers

SASKATOON – Due to the amount of rain this spring coupled with recent heat, nuisance mosquitoes are up ten times compared to last week in Saskatoon.

In the city’s five traps, over 9,600 mosquitoes were captured. Around 9,400 of them are the nuisance variety.

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“While the West Nile Virus has not been found in Saskatoon yet this year, the first Culex tarsalis was recently captured in one of our traps. Culex tarsalis is the mosquito that transmits the virus,” said Wayne Briant, parks branch manager.

The city is urging Saskatoon residents to use insect repellents containing DEET while enjoying these summer temperatures.

The numbers are almost double what they were at this time last year.

It doesn’t look like they are slowing down and residents can expect the high numbers to continue.