Warm weather could bring armies of mosquitoes

By Associated Press

For the AJC

Authorities say this winter's unseasonably warm temperatures could cause mosquitoes and other insects to come out earlier than normal this year in parts of Georgia.

University of Georgia entomology professor Paul Guillebeau tells The Times of Gainesville that if the general pattern of warmer weather continues, it's likely that mosquitoes will have an earlier start than normal. He said that could mean a larger population.

A blast of arctic air is expected to hit Georgia this weekend, but experts say there are plenty of places for insects to hide out until temperatures rise again.

UGA entomology professor Nancy Hinkle said most insects are very hardy. She said many insects have a form of antifreeze in their blood, allowing them to tolerate subzero temperatures for a short time.