As temperatures rise in Nova Scotia, many residents are noticing an increase in blackflies compared to previous years. However, there may be a positive aspect to this surge in blackfly activity.
Andrew Hebda, a former zoology curator at the Nova Scotia Museum, explained to CBC’s Information Morning Halifax that blackflies are relatively inactive during the cold winter months and become more active in spring when the weather warms up. Hebda noted that this season, blackflies are emerging rapidly.
Hebda mentioned that within 10 days to two weeks of warm weather, the majority of blackflies will have emerged, reproduced, and then died off for the summer. Unlike mosquitos, which can have multiple generations in a season, blackflies have only one generation per year.
Hebda pointed out that mosquitoes thrive in warm and moist conditions, unlike blackflies. Last year, the dry weather suppressed blackfly activity despite higher temperatures.
To avoid blackflies, it is advisable to steer clear of tall grass and wooded areas. For mosquitoes, staying in open areas with strong, steady winds can help. Using bug sprays to mask scent or wearing bug jackets to create a physical barrier are also effective preventive measures.
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