As the weather has become warmer across Nova Scotia, many residents have noticed an increase in blackflies compared to previous years, although there may be a positive aspect to their presence.
According to Andrew Hebda, a former zoology curator at the Nova Scotia Museum, blackflies are usually inactive during the winter and in cold conditions. They become active in the spring with rising temperatures, and this season they are emerging rapidly.
Hebda mentioned that if the current weather conditions persist for 10 to 14 days, most blackflies will have emerged, reproduced, and then disappeared for the summer since they only have one generation per year. In contrast to mosquitoes, which can have multiple generations in a season, blackflies will not reappear until the following year after reproducing and dying off.
Last year, despite higher temperatures, the dry conditions led to some suppression of blackflies. Hebda advised avoiding tall grass and wooded areas to steer clear of blackflies. For mosquitoes, staying in open areas with strong winds is recommended. Additionally, using bug sprays to mask scent or wearing bug jackets as a physical barrier can help deter insects.
To combat the nuisance of blackflies and mosquitoes, staying informed about preventive measures and being cautious in outdoor settings are key strategies for Nova Scotians during the warmer months.
