Mosquito spray could be killing other pollinators, experts say

RALEIGH, N.C. — Debates on social media sites in North Carolina have been raising concerns about whether mosquito spray could be putting insects other than mosquitos and the food supply at risk, WTVD reported.

Some homeowners don’t spray at all because they are worried about killing bees, which pollinate flowers.

Experts warn that if a spray kills one type of bug, it will likely kill them all.

"Without pollinators for certain plants then we wouldn't have things that we like to eat. This includes things like zucchinis, watermelon, stuff like that, that you might want to grow in your backyard garden," said entomologist at North Carolina State University Dr. Michael Reiskind.

Some homeowners don’t want to deal with the hassle of mosquitos when they are outside, so they hire companies to spray their yards.

Reiskind recommends that companies follow instructions on the labels to protect other insects.

"If they're following the rules they shouldn't be spraying flowering plants and that should limit the impact," Reiskind said.

The company Mosquito Authority said some of its employees are farmers and beekeepers, so they make sure to use the sprays properly.

"We have a real understanding of what it is to be cautious and careful when we're on property that has bees, pollinators, a lot of plants, a lot of blooming flowers and things like that," said Jerry Yoder, director of operations at Mosquito Authority. "We use a product that's regulated by the EPA.

If homeowners are looking for a way to reduce the number of mosquitoes without using chemicals, they can try burning citronella candles.

Cox Media Group