Summer's Buzzkill: Everything You Need to Know About Mosquitoes in Nebraska
Ah, Nebraska summers. Endless sunny days, cozy warm nights spent on the porch, and unfortunately… mosquitoes. If you’ve lived here long enough, you’ve probably had your fair share of itchy bites and buzzing in your ear. But what you might not know is that Nebraska is relatively a hotspot for mosquito activity, and even mosquito-borne disease.
Now, before you start stocking up on citronella candles, here's the lowdown on what kinds of mosquitoes we have here, what risks they present, and how you can keep them from being a buzzkill at your backyard barbecue.
Meet Nebraska's Most Common Mosquitoes
Nebraska has over 50 varieties of mosquitoes flying around, but only a few are worth worrying about. Here are the major ones you're most likely to see:
Culex tarsalis – The main culprit when it comes to the spreading of West Nile virus. These individuals like to loiter around stagnant water in rural environments and are active mostly at dawn and dusk.
Aedes vexans – Daytime biters that are fairly aggressive and inhabit temporary standing water sites, like puddles and ditches after a heavy rainfall.
Aedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito) – Not too common here yet, but they're getting their foothold. Daytime biters, these mosquitoes can spread viruses like Zika and dengue in warmer temperatures.
When Is Mosquito Season in Nebraska?
Mosquitoes tend to start flying around late April, and by July and August, it's go-go-go—particularly after heavy rains. Depending on the weather, they might stick around through September. Warmth and water? Sounds like a perfect multiplier cocktail.
What's the Risk?
The big one to watch out for in Nebraska is West Nile virus. It has been a consistent issue here for decades, and while many are not made sick by it, some do go on to develop fever, headaches, or even neurological problems in the worst cases.
How to Protect Yourself (Without Hiding Indoors All Summer)
Good news!, You don't have to spend your summer mosquito-swatting or in a hazmat suit.
Here are a few simple tricks that can go a long way:
Dump standing water – Search for buckets, birdbaths, old tires, plant saucers—anything that will hold water. Mosquitoes love it.
Use repellent – DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus products are great.
Cover up – Long sleeves and light pants can help, especially during the mosquitoes' favorite biting times (sunrise and sunset).
Fix window screens – Mosquito-proof your home.
Ask for help- Of course, sometimes your best efforts are not enough. If you are still having problems with mosquitoes on your property, it might be time to seek professional help. Hire a trustworthy pest control expert to tackle the issue for you!
Fun (and Kind of Gross) Mosquito Facts
Nebraska routinely ranks among the top states for West Nile virus cases, especially late in the summer.
Some mosquitoes can fly up to 10 miles to find a blood meal!
Mosquito eggs can even survive for months without water, just waiting for the time to hatch.
Final Thoughts
Mosquitoes are part of the Nebraska summer landscape, but they don't have to ruin it. A little knowledge and some good practices can help you enjoy the great outdoors with fewer bites and frets.
So go ahead and get that bug spray, light up the citronella, and enjoy summer—just smarter.
