Local entomologist warns of insect diseases

AMHERST, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - Western Mass News is getting answers from a local entomologist who told us mosquitoes are just one airborne pest to be wary of.

We stopped by American Pest Solutions in Agawam to hear from entomologist Bob Russell. He told us this time of year there’s always three common pests that have their phone lines buzzing: bees, mosquitoes, and ticks. “Those are the big three on our list. Our calls are dominated by those three things right now.”

Russell went on to say that the excessive heat we’ve seen this summer may be to blame for the large number of mosquitoes out this season. “Anything above 70-degree water promotes the development of adult mosquitoes within a week. So, you’re just seeing an influx of continued adult mosquitoes, which are the biting mosquitoes, so due to this high humidity we’re not drying out. We’re definitely seeing more.”

In fact, at least three communities here in western mass have had mosquitoes test positive for things like Triple E, also known as Eastern Equine Encephalitis or West Nile including Chicopee, Belchertown and Easthampton.

Russell noted that it is the middle of prime tick season and in recent years the lone star tick has made its way up north, Russell adds it gets more and more prevalent each season so if you enjoy a summer barbeque you may want to keep an eye out.

“When they bite a person, their saliva has alpha gal protein in it which is similar to meat protein and your body creates antibodies against that when it injected into your blood and people develop allergies to meat, red meat and even pork.”

And Russell said it is currently peak development season for yellow jackets and white face hornets. If you go near their nests during the day this time of year its very likely, you’ll get stung. And if you want to get rid of them, Russell cautioned against one common practice.

“My concern is that homeowners will use repellent s on their home to try and kill these bees and then have a tendency to kind of push them in doors or seal up the opening please don’t do that you’re going to take 20 to 300 bees in your home and when that happens it’s very hard for professionals to resolve it.”

No matter what pest is bugging you this summer, Russell suggested leaving the extermination up to the professionals.