The basis of every CMC mosquito control program is a comprehensive survey. The survey is used to locate and map all potential larval development habitats, to identify the mosquito species present, and to predict the time and location of effective control strategies. Larval and pupal surveys are very effective and efficient in monitoring populations and species content. But before routine breeding site inspection and larviciding operations can begin, all sites within the proposed jurisdiction must be identified and mapped. The potential mosquito breeding sites can be identified using new digital GIS technology, USGS maps which are available for most areas digitally, digital aerial photos and satellite imagery.
Several methods are available for sampling adult mosquitoes.
CDC light traps are the most common and are used in most Colorado Mosquito Control, Inc. control programs. The traps are used to capture nocturnal mosquitoes that are CO 2 and light attractive. The adult mosquitoes are then sorted to sex and species and counted, with the results entered into the computer for trend analysis. Season-long trapping results can be used to identify population trends, component species and to effectively time spray applications. Today one of the most important tools in our arsenal against mosquitoes is not a new spray machine or some high tech insecticide, but a computer.