Winnipeggers battling 'super mosquitoes' after wet weather causes spike

The city’s wet weather has led to a spike in the mosquito population, and with more rain in the forecast, the swarms are expected to keep on growing.

It was hardy eating for mosquitoes this weekend, and their meal of choice – Winnipeggers.

The city’s wet weather has led to a spike in the mosquito population, and with more rain in the forecast, the swarms are expected to keep on growing.

“I haven't quit swiping yet since we got out of the car,” said Mike Rennick, as he swatted a mosquito on his arm while walking in Kildonan Park Monday.

“Just the past week, we’ve noticed a big difference,” Lorraine Rennick said, walking beside him.

Entomologist Taz Stuart said rainy weather has led to a jump in mosquito counts in Winnipeg.

“Standing water then helps create more mosquitoes out there, and people aren't used to it,” he said. “We've had five, six years of great non-mosquito years.”

According to city data – the average mosquito trap count spiked last week from around six mosquitoes as of last Monday to 25 this Monday. Though parts of the city like North Kildonan are seeing well over 100 mosquitoes per trap.