AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Why Do We Have MosquitoesWhat Are ey Good For?

By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

Ok, so I bet you’re thinking mosquitoes have no value. Those annoying insects landing on you, feeding on your blood, to further annoy you with an itchy bite after they’re done.

Well, believe it not, mosquitoes do have an ecological role to play. While there are more than 3,500 species of mosquito, not all will bite humans. Their primary role is serving as pollinators. Their main food source is the nectar from flowers. While bees and butterfl ies transfer pollen from one flower to another, so do mosquitoes. This fertilization of plants allows seeds to form and reproduce. Mosquitoes also pollinate some orchids, one of the plants totally dependent on mosquitoes for pollination. Males never bite and only feed on flower nectar. The female only feeds on blood when she lays eggs as she requires protein during that time.

So, what else are mosquitoes good for?

Food. A large variety of animals enjoy the taste of mosquitoes. Bats, birds, turtles, dragonfl ies, hummingbirds and even spiders feed on mosquitoes. There are a few animal species that rely solely upon mosquitoes as their food source.

So, how can we live in harmony with them? Since they play a significant role in our ecosystem, it’s best to avoid pesticides as they can have a negative impact on those species who rely on them for food. Instead, there are some natural ways to reduce getting bitten by mosquitoes. 1. Since they love stagnant water sources, like birdbaths, refresh the water every day or so to control the growth of eggs or larvae. 2. Use repellents on skin and clothing. 3. Mosquitoes are not strong flyers so running a fan will blow many mosquitoes away from you. 4. Wear long/loose sleeves covering exposed skin. 5. Mother Nature can help you. Create a safe landscape that encourages various kinds of wildlife, attracting natural mosquito predators like birds, bats, salamanders, frogs, spiders, lizards, and dragonfl ies.

Attracting and killing mosquitoes is not the answer. Nature itself, when left alone, will manage populations.

Information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.

30th Annual Ladies’ Catch Of e Day Fishing Tournament

FORKED RIVER – The Women’s Club of the Forked River Tuna Club is pleased to announce their 30th annual Ladies’ Catch of the Day Tournament, sponsored by Dr. Kathy Banks. The tournament will be held July 8 and is open to women and mermaids, young ladies 12 years or under. The entry fee for women remains at $30 and mermaids fish free! The adult categories are fluke and sea bass. Mermaids will fish for fluke and/or crabs. Mermaids must be chaperoned by an adult who is not required to be a registered angler. If you are interested in going on a head boat call Linda, our tournament chairperson at 609-618-2925.

The Angler’s meeting will be held July

7. Doors and kitchen open at 6:30 p.m. Registration runs from 7 to 9 p.m. at the clubhouse, 18 Bay Avenue, Forked River. There will be a drawing for Early Entry, postmarked by June 23. Basket raffles and 50/50 will be available both days.

Fishing and crabbing begin on July 8 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. All weigh-ins must be completed no later than 4 p.m. at the Tuna Club. Awards picnic follows at 5 p.m. The culmination of the days’ events will be when the winner is drawn for the $1,000 worth of Shop Rite gift cards.

Visit forkedrivertunaclub.com for registration form. Portion of proceeds will benefit the FRTC Scholarship Fund and local Conservation Education programs.

Fire Pit Friday

LONG BEACH – Long Beach Township is excited to announce Fire Pit Fridays will be at the 68th St. Beach from 7 to 9 p.m. The following bands will be performing on the Berkshire Hathaway – Zach Shore Stage:

July 7- My Hero Zero

July 14- The Royals

July 21- The Kiley Baxter Band

July 28- Jimmy & The Parrots

August 4- Isn’t It Always

August 11- Eaglemania

August 18- Chris Fritz & The Impulsives

August 25- Frontiers – Journey Tribute Band

Food and soft drinks sold each week by RAD Kitchen/Philly Pretzel and Daddy’O’s or Manafi rkin will be selling alcoholic beverages to those 21 and over with ID. You may also bring your own food and coolers.