Restorative Dirt, NYC Birds, Fungus Eating Plastic from The Amazon & West Nile Virus Mosquitoes and Their Diseases
Tommy Siegel:
Unearthing the Secret Superpowers of Fungus
In the fight against warming, a formidable ally hides just beneath our feet. Read more here!
Fungus in Amazon Eats Plastic
Scientists found a fungus in the Amazon called Pestalotiopsis microspora that literally snacks on plastic. Pestalotiopsis microspora is not your typical fungus. It can survive entirely on polyurethane, one of the most common (and most persistent) typ
This season, we’ve detected mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus in 89 ZIP codes across NYC. Mosquitoes that carry West Nile bite around dusk and dawn. Be sure to protect yourself by using insect repellent. Learn more:
Avoid mosquitoes in the city by following these tips:
- Limit outdoor activity in the evening, especially at dusk and dawn. That’s when the mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus are most active.
- Use an EPA-approved insect repellentcontaining DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Wear protective clothing outside, especially during the evening. Mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus are most active at night and dawn. During the day, avoid dark-colored clothing.
- Do not wear colognes, perfumes and scented body lotions.
- Avoid shaded, bushy areas where mosquitoes rest during the day.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are most active in New York City from April through October. During this time, they seek to lay their eggs in slow-moving or standing water.
A range of factors influence mosquito populations, including the impacts of climate change. Warmer average temperatures have led to earlier springs, hotter summers, and milder winters. Precipitation has also increased. These changes allow mosquitoes to expand into new areas, reproduce more quickly, and stay active for longer periods of the year.
Diseases Spread by Mosquitoes
Most mosquitoes you see in the city do not carry disease. Only a few mosquitos species in New York City may carry and spread West Nile virus.
Diseases spread by mosquitoes in areas outside the city include:
