Mosquitoes

In South East Queensland, mosquitoes are mostly active during the warmer months from September to April.

There are many types of mosquitoes in South East Queensland, but three types can bring the biggest impact to residents: Saltmarsh mosquito, Freshwater mosquito, Container breeder.

• Saltmarsh mosquito – breed in the inter-tidal and mangrove areas of the region, including Hays Inlet, Griffin, Mango Hill, Beachmere and Bribie Island.
• Freshwater mosquito – hatch in water that has collected along the road, in reserves, parks and people’s yards after rain.
• Container breeder – breed in containers holding rainwater including plant saucers, tyres, buckets, water tanks and blocked gutters. They can be active during the day or night and are usually found in the shaded area around the home.

The Moreton Bay Regional Council is doing its part in managing mosquitoes, mainly with the use of BTI (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies israelensis). It is a naturally occurring bacterium found in soils that specifically targets the larvae of mosquitoes, blackfly and fungus gnat.

Residents are also encouraged to help reduce mosquito numbers, mostly making sure any containers that can hold water (plant saucer, rainwater tank, tyres, etc.) are emptied as water can provide ideal conditions for mosquitoes and midges to breed.