Are Mayfly Swarms Returning to Wisconsin?

Environmental experts say that mayfly numbers throughout the World have been decreasing over the last few years, but these pictures from Wisconsin completely disagree.

Are Mayflies in Danger?

I'm sorry, but the only kind of "good" insect to me is a dead one. I know every single one of God's creatures has a purpose on this planet, but I really wish insects didn't exist. That being said, it does make me sad to read about how the current state of our environment is affecting everything great and small.

Canva

Over the last few years, environmental experts say Mayfly numbers throughout the World have been decreasing at an alarming rate, and this Smithsonian article from 2020 says the weather is a major contributor to the problem.

First, warming water temperatures caused by climate change may be disrupting oxygen circulation and the insects’ life cycle, according to National Geographic. Another possible culprit is fertilizer runoff from farms.

Seeing large swarms of Mayflies around Illinois or Wisconsin waters is technically a good thing because these bugs thrive in places where water quality is good, but that doesn't mean they don't come with some very big disadvantages.

Mayflies are an absolutely nasty nuisance that swarm outdoor lights and windows with light shining through, and since they don't live long, you wake up to a pile of dead mayflies lying on your deck and windowsills each morning.

Mayfly Swarms Are Returning to Wisconsin?

Mayflies are typically a problem during the month of May, but right now they appear to be enjoying a second wind in Wisconsin. Check out these pictures that were posted today in a Facebook group for the Adams County area in Wisconsin.

Sally Geiger/Rome Chatter (Adams Co, WI) via Facebook

My parent's cabin is in Adams County, Wisconsin, and I know for a fact that this picture was taken at a gas station VERY near it. My family is supposed to be going to the lake soon, but looking at this picture is making me think twice about hitting the road. GROSS.

Have you ever seen huge swarms of Mayflies this late in the summer? Send us an app message and tell us where you saw it!

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