As temperatures rise in Nova Scotia, many residents are noticing an increase in blackflies compared to previous years, but there may be a positive aspect to this surge. Andrew Hebda, a former zoology curator at the Nova Scotia Museum, explained on CBC’s Information Morning Halifax that blackflies are typically inactive during winter and cold spells. They become active in spring with the warmer weather, and this season, they are emerging rapidly.
Hebda mentioned that if the current conditions persist for 10 days to two weeks, the majority of blackflies will have emerged, reproduced, and then finished their life cycle for the summer, as they only have one generation per year. In contrast to mosquitos, which can have multiple generations in a season, blackflies will not reappear until the following year once they have reproduced and died off.
Hebda noted that mosquitoes thrive in moist, warm summers. Last year, the dry conditions suppressed blackfly populations despite higher temperatures. To avoid blackflies, Hebda recommends staying away from tall grass and wooded areas. For mosquitoes, he suggests staying in open areas with strong, steady winds. Additionally, using bug sprays to mask your scent or wearing bug jackets can create a barrier between you and the insects.