Friday was the first day of spring, and in Delaware, it was also the first day of spray flights to protect against those pesky mosquitos. Officials from the DNREC Fish and Wildlife said that winter’s deep freeze snow and ice delayed mosquito’s hatching, but the bloodsuckers are still expecte d to come out in full force. “They were just delayed in their hatching because of the cold temperatures,” said Tom Moran, of DNREC Fish and Wildlife. “But we documented the first hatching in late February, and now they’re advancing to the point that it’s the best time to treat them. Mosquitos are not only annoying bugs that can leave scratchy bumps on people’s skin, but they are also a danger because of the diseases they carry. “Mosquitos are not only a nuisance, but they can be dangerous too because of the diseases they carry,” said DNREC Secretary Greg Patterson. State helicopters flew up and sprayed over pooled water in wooded areas on Friday. According to officials, this is the best place to fight skeeters now, but they will adapt their strategies as the year rolls on depending on temperatures and rainfall. “We can look at a ten day rain forecast,” Moran said. “We can look at when the marshes are going to flood with the tide lunar cycles. It gives us a little indication.” In Delaware, the state handles big areas and if residents call them they’ll even treat public areas near your neighborhood, but they will not take care of people’s private yards. To keep your home safe from mosquitos, avoid keeping standing water around such as in tires, kiddie pools and gutters. Use repellent and citronella as well. ...read more read less