Mosquito populations are predicted to extend their ranges to new areas as a result of climate change. This brings about concerns for the spread of mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, Zika, and West Nile. In this activity, participants can explore changes in mosquito populations over several decades, correlated to changes in temperature. They also learn multiple ways to suppress mosquito populations in order to create their own hypothesis about the most effective methods for mosquito control.
- You'll need: Something to represent flies (coins work in a pinch) and three types of tools (see supply list that's included in our Activity Guide).
- You'll download: Our data on mosquito rates over time (or get information locally). The data can be found in the Activity Guide on our Buzz Off! resource page (also see our training video).
- K-5 extension: Create a poster warning about mosquitoes and making suggestions about effective abatement strategies.
- 6-8 extension: Using the data currently available, construct a formula for predicting the number of mosquitoes by year. Use this formula to predict the number of mosquitoes for 2050 and 2100. Create a graph of this data, and use this to explain how climate change is changing mosquito populations.
- 9-12 extension: Research mosquito abatement strategies that are right for your area. Then write a short letter to the editor of your local newspaper calling for the strategy you have developed, explaining why it will be effective.