Thanks to all who responded to my query about spraying for mosquitoes.
Isabel
From: <carolinabirds-request...> <carolinabirds-request...> on behalf of <badgerboy...> <badgerboy...>
Date: Sunday, July 27, 2025 at 6:35 PM
To: <carolinabirds...> <carolinabirds...>
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.
