Date: 7/27/25 3:35 pm From: <badgerboy...> Subject: Re: Spraying for mosquitoes, and the effect on birds
Chris makes a great point--even with so-called specific chemicals, there are always unforeseen results in a complex ecosystem.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to notice that pesticide use is increasing exponentially: the numbers of vehicles with spray tanks on the back, the number of people with backpack chemical tanks, the numbers of scared people spraying their beloved yard landscaping, the amounts of advertising for chemical lawn products, rid-a-bug, the chemicals masquerading as "environmentally friendly", more brown roadsides from herbicide sprays, the list goes on and on. Even people and organizations whose stated purpose is to protect the environment and promote increased wildlife, are susceptible to the temptations to use these types of products.
For 25 years, I have refused to use any chemical killers, even for hornets etc. Vacuum cleaners are a great no-chem way to remove bugs--fast and easy. This even works well on ants that try and establish a base in the house. I notice good numbers of insects in my yard as compared to neighbors. And we have lots of birds using the yard. The general pesticide load and spray drift, etc., are certainly having an effect though.
I hope all birders will consider rebelling against the conventional "wisdom" of chemical and pesticide use.
