Mites are probably one of the most common insects on the earth and the vast majority of them have not been described yet. While the majority of them are harmless to humans and even helpful to us, there are several that are found in San Mateo County that can be a right nuisance. Most of these species are unable to invade your home without their host (usually rats or wild birds) but once there, they may bite humans if they reach a large population size or their host dies. Below are some of the most common biting mites in San Mateo County.
Reporting directly to the District Manager, the Finance Director oversees all administrative and accounting procedures and performs necessary tasks to ensure timely completion of assignments and requirements. The incumbent performs a wide variety of financial and administrative work requiring research, analysis, independent judgment and collaborative skills.
The table shows the proportions of common mosquitoes in San Mateo County that were collected in carbon dioxide baited traps in June 2017 compared with the five-year average during June.
Laboratory staff conducted two surveys of wild rodents in the month of June. The surveys took place in Water Dog Lake park in Belmont on June 14th and 15th and Eaton and Big Canyon parks in San Carlos on June 20th and 21st. Blood samples were taken from captured rodents by a subocular bleed with a microcapillary tube and ear punches were also taken from the rodents. The blood and ear tissue will be tested in our District laboratory for Borrelia bacteria that cause Lyme disease and other infection.
As of June 630, 2017, there have been 215 dead birds reported in San Mateo County. Of those, 45 have been suitable for testing and 1 has tested positive (2%) for West Nile Virus (WNV). No dead squirrels or mosquito pools have been tested for West Nile Virus in San Mateo County thus far this year.
Did you know that there are more stinging insects than just wasps and honey bees? Stinging insects are grouped into the family Hymenoptera and are distinguished by having 2 sets of wings, a cinched “wasp waist,” and an ovipositor that has been modified into a stinger. That is about where the comparisons end however. The following article covers the incredible diversity of stinging insects and even points out a couple of the “wanna-bees” that have evolved to mimic their much more aggressive cousins.
