Why does the Vector Control trap mosquitoes? 

The Vector Control district monitors the adult mosquito population specifically the Culex mosquito, this species of mosquito is known transmit the West Nile virus. The Vector Control district was established to monitor the presence of the West Nile virus. This remains to be the districts number one goal. 

When does the Vector Control know when to start trapping?

The district starting trap date is determined by weather variables. Typically the district beings setting traps the last week of April the first week of May. Around that time is when the ambient temperature being at or above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Other weather variables include wind speed and weather conditions. 

Where does te Vector Control set traps?

Trap locations are determined by the previous years collection data, high activity areas, permission from landowners and public gathering places like parks, soccer fields and school yards.

How are the traps set? 

 Traps are set out in the late afternoon to early evening when Culex mosquito activity increases. The traps consists of a black bucket with holes at the base with a motor attached to the bottom and collection net attached to the bottom of the motor. In order to attract the mosquitoes, dry ice is placed in the black bucket or a tube from a CO2 tank is ran into the bucket. As the dry ice melts or the CO2 gas flows out the holes at the base of the bucket mosquitoes are then loured in. This happens because the dry ice and CO2 mimic a humans breath. There is a light and a fan within the motor so once the mosquitoes get below the bucket they get sucked into the net. Mosquitoes are weak fliers, that is why mosquitoes won't be very active when the wind is blowing. With the force of the fan keeping the mosquitoes in the net the field tech will be able to close the net the following morning without the risk of losing mosquitoes.