Are the bugs winning the race to the food this Summer?


Are the bugs winning the race to the food this Summer?

Are the bugs winning the race to the food this Summer?

If it seems there's more flies around than usual – it's true.
 
With the Bureau of Meteorology predicting a warmer and wetter than average summer[i], Australians can expect an onslaught of mosquitos and flies, according to leading urban entomologist, Bryce Peters, from the University of Technology Sydney.
 
'All signs point to a busy bug season. Mosquitos and flies thrive in warm and humid conditions and now is the time to prepare the home," said Mr Peters, who has more than 30 years' experience researching household pests and testing the effectiveness of household insect control products.
 
'Warmer than average days in the Eastern states will see an influx of flies, while king tides that are common around Christmas and New Year will provide the perfect breeding ground for mosquitos in Australian coastal areas.
 
'In tropical Top End states and Western Australia, where it is predicated to be wetter than average, mosquitos will flourish," Mr Peters added.
 
Along with taking a few basic steps to prepare the home, such as clearing any pooled water and keeping bins empty, Mr Peters says it's important to choose insect control products carefully to effectively target mosquitos and flies. 
 
'Not all insect control products are created equal. Citronella candles don't work and coils are only effective if used indoors, which is generally unpleasant due to the smell. Insect sprays, especially wall-mounted, automatic systems, are one of the easiest and most effective options for combatting flies and mosquitoes.
 
'Pyrethrins is one of the most effective active ingredients for targeting flying insects, and it is 100 per cent natural. To find insect control products that use Australian-grown pyrethrins, which is an extract from pyrethrum daisies grown in Tasmania, look for a -daisy logo' on the packaging," said Mr Peters.
 
The daisy logo is a new initiative from Australian Natural Pyrethrins® that makes it easier for consumers to spot insect control products that use the all-natural active ingredient, PYRETHRINS.
 
Pyrethrins are extracted from pyrethrum daisies that have been sustainably grown by Australian farming families for more than three decades.
 
Visit www.poweredbyflowers.com.au

MORE