Fewer mosquitoes in Calgary, expert says

It hastaken a while, but the mosquitoes are finally out in Calgary,just not as bad as they could be.

"I think we're probably around about a third of what would be normal," said John Swann, the manager of the invertebrate section of the Museum of Zoology at the University of Calgary.

He said things are worse right now thanks to all the rain, but the city is still in good shape when it comes to swarms of blood suckers.

"Realistically, looking at it, I don't think they'll catch up to where we'd ever expect them to be this time of year," said Swann.

West Nile virus

There are approximately 45 species of mosquitoes in Alberta, approximately 20 of which call Calgary home.

Different species emerge at different times throughout the summer and can move through a lifecycle in as little as a week.

There isn't much to worry about in Calgaryin terms of mosquito-borne illness, but you should still use spray to protect yourselves.

"In some cases it can be a worse year for West Nile when there are fewer mosquitoes," said Swann.

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