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Oklahoma's Floodwater Mosquito Population Increasing From Recent Heavy Rainfall

A female <em>Anopheles gambiae </em>mosquito feeds on human blood through a mosquito net.
Emily Lund
A female Anopheles gambiae mosquito feeds on human blood through a mosquito net.

The recent heavy rainfall has caused an increase of floodwater mosquitoes.

Justin Talley, an entomologist at Oklahoma State University, says the recent rain created the ideal conditions for floodwater mosquitoes to breed.

While many mosquito species tend to only feed during the night, floodwater mosquitoes are aggressive biters that are active both in the daytime and evening.

Talley says there tends to also be more mosquito activity in areas that are shaded and to be aware of stagnant water that might go unseen.

“So, if you have any kind of potted plant that's holding water or any kind of barbecue or barbecue cover or anything that can hold even as small... a small cap full of water, it can support mosquito development," said Talley.

Floodwater mosquitoes are unlikely to carry the West Nile Virus to humans, but they can transmit heartworm to dogs. Apply products to your dog and make sure they are up to date on heartworm medication.

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Katelyn discovered her love for radio as a student employee at KGOU, graduating from the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, and then working as a reporter and producer in 2021-22. Katelyn has completed internships at SiriusXM in New York City and at local news organizations such as The Journal Record and The Poteau Daily News. Katelyn served as president of the OU chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists from 2017 to 2020. She grew up in Midland, Texas.
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