Approximately 75 percent of the crops that humans rely on for food require pollination by bees, other insects or birds, according to researchers at Penn State University, and up to 95 percent of the flowers and trees found in nature also rely on pollinators. In recent years, the declining population of bees in the United…
If one thing can put a damper on an otherwise fun-filled summer in Austin, TX, it’s dealing with mosquitoes. These pesky pests are a fact of life, but that doesn’t mean that you have to resign yourself to being perpetually bitten up. There are ways to reduce the risk of being bitten in the first…
Summer is in full swing in Austin, which means the mosquitoes aren’t far behind. While everyone knows that mosquitoes are a nuisance, you may not realize there are different types of mosquitoes around your home. Because different breeds of mosquito are attracted to different things, it’s important to know what kinds of mosquitoes you may…
Each year, more than 80 percent of Americans will enjoy at least one outdoor barbecue. To avoid the intense summer heat, many people prefer to cook later in the day, but the moderate temperatures also provide the ideal conditions for mosquitoes. In addition to being a nuisance, mosquitoes can pose a serious health risk to…
Each year, more than 80 percent of Americans will enjoy at least one outdoor barbecue. To avoid the intense summer heat, many people prefer to cook later in the day, but the moderate temperatures also provide the ideal conditions for mosquitoes. In addition to being a nuisance, mosquitoes can pose a serious health risk to…
Ways to Avoid the Zika Virus in Austin, TX With the Zika outbreak rapidly spreading across the Americas, prevention is key to preventing the disease. Once Zika is contracted, it causes flu-like symptoms that often go unnoticed. Unfortunately, the virus carries a risk of birth defects and deaths among unborn children. If a pregnant woman…
The Zika virus has been scaring many travelers away from the tropics. Below are five ways to avoid contracting Zika. Use an effective insect repellant When you are outdoors, use an insect repellant. The CDC recommends using a product that contains DEET. Although the use of DEET on the skin has been controversial, a 2014 Popular…