Experts Claim Warmer Weather Trends Impact Pest Populations in the Valley

PHOENIX - Oct. 26, 2015 - PRLog -- While the debate on how much changing temperature patterns affects the planet’s weather cycles continues, two local business owners believe the change can be seen in insects and pests.
Nate Woolf and Curtis Whalen, founders of Gilbert-based Blue Sky Pest control, predict Valley residents will continue to see insect populations rise through the fall and winter seasons as unseasonably warm temperatures persist.
         “Insect populations increase rapidly especially in Arizona’s already desirable climate when warmer weather lasts longer,” says Woolf. “Extended summer heat mixed with our recent monsoons brings an added risk of extremely high insect population in the greater Phoenix area.”
According to a 2014 study by the Centers for Disease Control,* climate warming can also expand the life cycle of many species that are dependent on thermal cues. Similarly, the Valley’s prolonged warmer temperatures could produce a similar result leaving Residents to deal with more illness-borne insects like mosquitos.  Whalen advises residents to be extra cautious of insects like mosquitos and ticks because they can carry transmissible illnesses such as Lyme disease and West Nile Virus.
While Valley weather patterns are uncontrollable, Whalen suggests that taking preventative steps to help mitigate the risk of a bite should always be a priority.
         “By staying knowledgeable on pest control treatments and basic weather-proofing tips homeowners can help reduce the risk of getting bit by insects that carry highly infectious diseases,” Whalen says.
Whalen advises residents to remove standing water from home surroundings, make all necessary repairs to leaking faucets and sprinkler systems, and wear long-sleeved clothing and bug replant if working outside.

*http://www.cdc.gov/climateandhealth/pubs/adaptation-in-ac...