This past winter's excessive snowfall has saturated the ground and left numerous puddles throughout the forests, particularly in the northern two-thirds of the country, according to Jan Lundström, an advisor for the Biological Mosquito Control project and researcher at Uppsala University. In simpler terms, these puddles are teeming with mosquito larvae.
Protecting yourself from forest mosquitoes
Forest mosquitoes, while not as aggressive as other species, can still be a nuisance. Unlike their more assertive counterparts, forest mosquitoes tend to be a bit shy. They'll hover and observe you before landing, offering a window of opportunity for swatting them away.
Lundström recommends wearing light, loose-fitting long pants and covered shoes, ensuring no gap between your pants and shoes. Forest mosquitoes typically target the lower body, having evolved to bite large animals undetected. Applying repellent to hands, forearms, neck, and face can provide additional protection if needed.
Dealing with flood mosquitoes
– If you're in an area infested with floodwater mosquitoes, your best bet is to head indoors and close the door, advises Lundström. Alternatively, you can wear significantly more protective clothing.
– Flood mosquitoes are quite different. They fly in a straight line, land, and bite almost immediately, explains Lundström.
He recommends adding long underwear or thicker pants to your forest mosquito attire. In extreme situations, gloves and a mosquito hat might be necessary.
Repellent alone offers minimal protection against flood mosquitoes. It wears off quickly and may not be suitable for young children. Mosquitoes land and take off repeatedly, gradually reducing the repellent's effectiveness.
Look out for a more thorough guide on how to deal with summer pests - coming soon!