SYDNEY, Jan. 8 (Xinhua) -- One of the nature's most maligned creatures, the mosquito, is showing up in heavy numbers across the East Coast of Australia this season due to an unusual combination of king tides, high rainfall, and enduring hot weather.
Mosquito researcher Dr Cameron Webb from New South Wales Health Pathology told local media on Tuesday that for people on the coast, this summer has been far worse than usual.
"It is almost perfect conditions for the mosquitoes," Webb said.
"We've had plenty of rain, and in December we have also had really big tides in our coastal wetlands -- mozzies love all that water."
Residents have noticed the influx of bloodsuckers, which like to appear in the cool of the evening, just as people are firing up their outdoor barbecues.
While Australia's mosquitoes carry less disease than their cousins in the tropics, Webb said that residents should still be aware and avoid being bitten where possible.
According to Webb, the most effective way to deter them is to apply insect repellent as well as using mosquito coils or sticks which contain insecticide.
Mobile phone apps and wristbands touted as being effective are often not a sufficient measure, Webb said.
