The following is a notice from Dr. Michael Merchant, Extension Entomologist in Dallas, regarding the impact all this recent rain will have on the mosquite population. Take heed to emptying containers, gutters, and other vessels that hold water, and wear repellants when outside in the evening.
In case you haven't noticed, 2007 has been a good year for mosquitoes. First, heavy rains brought out large numbers of floodwater mosquitoes (e.g., Aedes vexans and Psorophora species). More recently we are seeing more container-breeding mosquitoes, such as Aedes albopictus (the Asian tiger mosquito) and the salt marsh mosquito, Ochlerotatus (=Aedes) sollicitans. While there is little that can be done to prevent emergence of floodwater mosquitoes, container breeding mosquitoes are a preventable problem.
It's very important to empty wheelbarrows, bird baths, wading pools, and any other backyard items that collect and hold water.
As the summer progresses, and especially as things begin to dry out, we will also start to see more of the southern house mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus. This pest is our main culprit for transmission of West Nile virus, so it is even more important that people participating in backyard and outdoor events take advantage of insect repellents.
