Record flooding turns B.C.’s Fraser Valley into a mosquito free-for-all

Some folks may as well have a mosquito bullseye printed on their forehead (or arms, or ankles).

They're the people you want to sit close to at an outdoor barbecue because they act like bug magnets. You're pretty much guaranteed an itch-free night as all the buzzing circulates around their particular orbit.

And contrary to what they may tell you, it isn't because they make for one sweet bloodsucker buffet.

Medical research has dashed that long-held summertime myth by revealing mosquitoes are most likely to be attracted to dark colours, a particular blood type, body temperature or the level of carbon dioxide in your breath.

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But as CBC News reports, heavy exercisers with a penchant for black workout gear in B.C.'s Fraser Valley may want to consider temporary relocation until September.

Record water levels along the Fraser River have resulted in a mosquito Woodstock, with millions and millions of the tiny pests congregating in the area's standing water pools, looking for a good time.

"Every year, the Fraser River comes up, floods areas that are typically dry, and that's where eggs from previous years have been laid," Shaun Calver of Morrow BioScience, a company hired by the regional district to tackle the problem, told the CBC.

"The water comes up, hits the eggs, and turns them into mosquito larvae."

Residents have been complaining of "treacherous" mosquito conditions, including one well-intentioned man who got served up raw when he tried to mow his lawn on Saturday morning.

Rainy conditions across the province aren't helping lighten the mood either. After a brief taste of summer, Vancouverites were pulling out their well-worn umbrellas again on Monday.

And it could be weeks before officials are able to stanch the flow.

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Though Morrow BioScience is working on a bacterium-infused larvicide to kill off future generations, current populations are still at large — and thirsty.

In the meantime, experts recommend developing a sudden passion for light-coloured clothing, keeping away from puddles and ponds, wearing protective layers, staying indoors at dusk and dawn and using a non-toxic insect repellant.