Pesky mosquitoes are currently pestering residents in a community in north Galt, Cambridge, and according to experts in the area, a backhoe and some hard work will be needed to eradicate them.

After a year of studying and research, City Council finally received a report that detailed the problems brought about by mosquitoes to those living in the vicinity of the Portuguese Swamp near Townline Road.

According to Dr. Fiona Hunter, a scientist from Entomogen Inc., there are over 64 species of mosquitoes in the area of the Portuguese Swamp. Less than 70 percent of those insects have an interest in humans, she added.

However, after investigating the swamp area last summer, Dr. Hunter found out that the mosquitoes that are causing problems aren’t even from the swamp. She and her time learned that the mosquitoes are breeding in the storm ponds situated around the swamp.

Dr. Hunter proposed the option of purchasing mosquito magnet machines which will be scattered throughout the neighborhood to eradicate the mosquitoes. The traps work by releasing carbon dioxide, which attracts the pests. They are then sucked into a net where they die due to dehydration. This is a very effective way of eliminating the pests she said, but it will however, be pricey.

Council is currently considering this option.