Where: All of Sweden
When: Summer
What: Mosquitoes
When we first moved here, I was warned about the notorious summer mosquitoes in Sweden. I pictured swarms of bloodthirsty insects ready to ruin my outdoor adventures. But after a few seasons here, I’ve learned that while mosquitoes can be super annoying, they're not as terrifying as the stories suggest. Here's what you really need to know about dealing with mosquitoes in Sweden.
ARE MOSQUITOES REALLY THAT BAD IN SWEDEN DURING SUMMER?
It depends on where you are and the weather. If it has rained a lot and is warm, those are optimal conditions for mosquitoes. You'll find more of them near water and in the forest. I've heard that further north, especially inland, mosquitoes are more common in summer. But in cities, you hardly notice them. So, it really depends on the circumstances.
WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT MOSQUITOES?
I did not find a holy grail yet to keep mosquitoes at a distance, but there are a few things that work at least a little:
Djungelolja: This is a mosquito and tick oil that I apply like a perfume, just a drop on the wrists and ankles. I notice fewer mosquito bites when I use this. You can buy Djungelolja at the pharmacy or outdoor stores like XXL.
Mygga Spray: This spray requires a bit more application, but it keeps mosquitoes at a distance for a while. Mygga is available at pharmacies and large supermarkets.
Thermacell: This device uses a gas cartridge and a repellent
sheet to create a 20-square-meter protection zone. There are two versions: one for home use and one to carry with you. You can
find Thermacell in many places in Sweden, such as large supermarkets, Clas Ohlson, and NetOnNet.
Mosquito Net: If you're heading into the forest to pick berries and there are many mosquitoes, a net over your head can protect your face and neck. There are bigger nets available too so you're protected while sleeping when camping. You can buy nets at outdoor stores like XXL. Also, if you keep moving, you often get bothered less, but if you stop, a swarm can gather around you.
Clothing: Wear loose, covering clothing in areas with many mosquitoes. This makes it harder for them to bite you. Leggings, for example, are a bad choice as mosquitoes can and will bite through them.
Windy Spots: Mosquitoes hate wind, so if you find a place with some wind, you won't be bothered as much by them. You can also make a campfire, because smoke does the same trick.
WHAT IS THE LIFECYCLE OF A MOSQUITO?
The mosquito lifecycle consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult mosquito. Here’s an overview:
Egg: Female mosquitoes lay their eggs on the water surface or in damp areas. A female can lay hundreds of eggs at once. The eggs hatch after a few days, depending on temperature and humidity.
Larva: The hatched eggs turn into larvae, often called "wrigglers" due to their movement in the water. They feed on microorganisms and organic material in the water, molting several times as they grow, usually four times.
Pupa: After the final molt, the larva becomes a pupa, also known as a "tumbler" because of how they move in the water. In this non-feeding stage, the mosquito undergoes a complete transformation, which usually takes a few days.
Adult Mosquito: Now, the adult mosquito emerges. The new adult rests on the water surface until its wings are dry and it’s ready to fly. Male mosquitoes live only a few days, feeding on nectar, while female mosquitoes can live for several weeks and need blood to develop their eggs. So, it’s the females that bite.
Each stage of the lifecycle is crucial for the reproduction and survival of mosquitoes. The entire process from egg to adult can vary from about 8 days to a few weeks, depending on the species and environmental conditions.
WHAT DOES SWEDEN DO ABOUT MOSQUITO PREVENTION?
Sweden uses various methods to control mosquito populations and reduce the nuisance they cause:
Environmental and Water Management: Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Draining excess water and improving water circulation reduces mosquito breeding. In some regions, programs are set up to regularly inspect water areas and take necessary actions to control the mosquito population.
Biological Control: Sweden uses biological control agents like Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), a bacterium that kills mosquito larvae without harming other wildlife or the environment. Promoting natural mosquito predators, like fish and certain insects, also helps keep mosquito populations in check.
Monitoring and Research: Regular monitoring of mosquito populations helps identify problem areas and implement targeted measures. Sweden invests in research to develop new and effective mosquito control methods.
SO, IS IT REALLY THAT BAD WITH THE MOSQUITOES?
It really depends on the weather and where you are. We manage just fine here. If we end up in a spot with lots of mosquitoes, we simply move to another location. So, please don't let it deter you from visiting Sweden.
If you do get bitten, the best tip I can give you is DON'T SCRATCH. A mosquito bite is like an 'on' button – scratching activates it and makes it itch more. Leave the bite alone, and you'll have less trouble with it and it will disappear more quickly.
HELPFUL LINKS:
More in depth information about Swedish mosquitoes and control:
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