If you could declare a home town of evolution it would be the Galapagos Islands. Back in 1835 a sea sick young naturalist, Charles Darwin, landed on the Galapagos to conduct a little research. That research was the genesis of Darwin’s seminal work “On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection.” Darwin was inspired by the grand variety of animals filling specific niches on the islands.

Now tourism is threatening to wipe out the animals which inspired one of the most important works in all of science. This time, for once, humans are not the main bad guy in this story. Although, as often the case, humans are involved unwittingly. When humans visit the island, they don’t realize they are bringing along a stowaway. Mosquitoes. The oft-maligned disease ridden scourge of the world.

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The sting of a mosquito bite is something most people try to avoid.  But scientists in Europe have come up with an unusual method for delivering a vaccine to human beings.  In a recent study, live mosquitoes were used to deliver live malaria parasites through their bites!

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A white fungus is devastating the bats of Connecticut and other Northeastern states.

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With an unusually mild winter and record high spring temperatures across North America and Europe, 2007 is shaping up as a boom time for mosquitoes.

Don't even bother with bug zappers and clouds of insecticides: not only are they ineffective, they do more damage than good. The neighborhood mosquito fogging carried out by some municipalities is a 24-hour solution at best, and large-scale spraying kills bees and other beneficial insects. Insecticides aren't good for animals or humans, either.

Fortunately, a little planning can make your outdoor activities a lot more bearable during the summer months. Ready to swat your mosquito problem the healthy, natural way? Here are some pointers.

Go on patrol

Mosquitos don't range very far. That's good news: if you can reduce their habitat and breeding grounds, you'll do a lot less slapping.

At least once a week during the warmer months, organize a mosquito posse. It's easier with more than one person. Start close to wherever you live and work outward. Be sure to give nearby abandoned and neglected property the once-over, as well.

You're looking for sources of standing or stagnant water. That's easier said than done, because mosquito larvae can make do with a few ounces of water in the bottom of an old soda can or beneath a leaky water faucet.

Old tires, uncovered boats, abandoned cars, puddles, and empty flower pots are likely candidates. Remove and properly dispose of rubbish in which water might pool. Call your local government's code enforcement office and have them deal with neighborhood eyesores.

Pay particular attention to clogged rain gutters. You should clear these a few times a season. Drain, remove, and invert — these are the best tactics for stopping mosquitos before they become hungry adults.

Be unattractive (to mosquitoes)

Mosquitoes are remarkably well-equipped to track you down. Don't do them any favors by enhancing the chemical cues which lead them to you.

Fruit and floral-scented smells are a mosquito come-on. Unfortunately, both are pretty common in sunscreens. Look for an unscented formula, such as Aubrey Organics' Natural Sun series or Avalon Organics Baby Mineral Sunscreen. You can buy them online or at your local heath store.

Insects don't have great vision, but they are closely attuned to contrasts. Avoid dark clothing and you'll be less of a sitting duck.

There are two other powerful chemical signals that alert mosquitoes you're ripe for biting: carbon dioxide and lactic acid. While you can't hold your breath, it's easy to avoid CO2-producing campfires and open flames. You produce tons of lactic acid when you're exercising, so consider moving strenuous activities out of the late afternoon hours when mosquitoes are most active. It also helps to limit salty foods and those rich in potassium.

Investigate natural insect repellants

DEET is certainly good at discouraging biting insects. But it's nasty stuff, and some people don't tolerate it well.

Citronella, castor, peppermint, lemongrass, and clove oil are among the natural alternatives you can try to keep mosquitos at bay. Combinations of these oils are available in convenient sprays — check your local whole foods or health outlet.

Two things to keep in mind with natural repellents: you'll need to reapply every two hours or so (or after swimming); and some people are sensitive to essential oils. Try a bit before you leave home to make sure the product you've chosen won't cause you problems.

It's not necessary to apply insect repellents directly to the skin. They work by masking your natural scent and will function just as well on your clothes. This will also minimize sweat-off and the likelihood of a skin reaction.

And good luck!

Clean up, cover up, and be smart about the times you're outdoors. Don't take any mozzie guff — and have a great summer!

Copyright © 2007 Chris Baskind