Tons of rain, TONS, need better mosquito control

[Frankie]

Like many, Indiana has had lots and lots of rain and flooding.

We have been here 8 years and have never had a mosquito problem. We have a large population of purple martins and they have always kept them under control.

But with all the rain, I already see them everywhere and I can see it is going to now be a problem for me.

Have you had a major problem before and what did you do to help control the problem?

I am spraying the horses in the morning, and spraying the barn down being careful not to over due it. Keeping grass and weeds cut. I have nothing sitting around holding water, except the ground.

What else can I do?

 

[barefoot]

Mosquito Dunks or bits. I put the granules in my puddles. I think it has helped . Arbico sells them.

www.arbico.com

http://www.arbico-organics.com/1211108.html

 

[Frankie]

Oh, and the spray I am using is CV-80D by Country Vet.

Is there an automatic sprayer I can use in the barn? I have seen them, but have been somewhat concerned with using them as you are not out there and do not know what they are spraying and when.

 

[Dona]

My only suggestion would be to use lots of fly spray (or masks & sheets).......and make sure to vaccinate everyone for West Nile!!!!!!!

 

[Michelle@wescofarms]

The Mosquito dunks/bits are great if you have any standing water anywhere.

For really effective mosquito/fly control we use the human Deep Woods Off it works better than any horse spray I've tried. We spray it on a baby wipe to wipe around the face and do not keep horses clipped short.

Another option if you have the space a bat house (county extentionsist should be able to help you there if need be). Bats eat literally thousands of mosquitos every night.

Same for dragonflies - love seeing clouds of dragonflies out in the afternoon! Frogs too!

Yes we encourage lots of wildlife here LOL!!

 

[Frankie]

We do have bats. Maybe if I put up a house it would encourage them more to stay. Our local farm store carries them. Not fond of the rabies they seem to carry, so I guess I'll think on it.

Mosquitos are worst than I have ever seen them here.

My vet also recommended WN earlier this year due to all the water.