Mosquitos, etc in Grand Rapids vs Madison, vs Elgin, IL (live, better) - City vs. City - City-Data Forum

bluemoon128 · 05-31-2010, 09:27 AM

How do these areas compare for mosquitos and other biting insects: Grand Rapids MI, Madison WI, or Elgin IL (or areas west of Chicago generally if you don't know Elgin specifically)?

Do they also have black flies? No see'ums?

What months are biting insects a problem and how bad?

Can you sit out in the evening without sprays or other precautions without slapping at yourself

?

Thank you!

bluemoon128 · 06-02-2010, 05:48 AM

Please, I'd appreciate any responses! I have a chance to move to Grand Rapids and may have a chance to move to Madison but am allergic to many insect bites so would be very grateful for comparisons to the Elgin/West of Chicago area I am familiar with. Thank you!!!

Bydand · 06-02-2010, 07:48 AM

I don't think you will find much difference to tell you the truth. Plus most people really don't pay much attention to mosquitoes so it would be hard to say one way or the other which is better. I've been to all the cities you mentioned, and really couldn't tell you which is better or worse for bugs. It also varies widely from year to year so one could be much better one year and much worse the next.

bluemoon128 · 06-02-2010, 01:04 PM

Thanks! Do they have blackflies in Grand Rapids and Madison aeas?

I was once plagued by them in Canada.

Bydand · 06-02-2010, 01:17 PM

Very few in Grand Rapids. I don't recall about Madison. I'm also one of those who really don't pay attention to bugs, unless they are really bad (think Springtime in Northern Maine.)

Steve-o · 06-02-2010, 07:27 PM

Depends on where you live in ANY city. If you live near water and/or woods, your chances for mosquitos are a lot higher. Ive lived in IL almost my whole life and have never had a problem with mosquitos where I lived. Black flies? Never one bite in my life.

bluemoon128 · 06-03-2010, 07:38 PM

I've been plagued by bugs in Maine. So is everyone saying neither Grand Rapids or Madison are like that? Thanks again.

bluemoon128 · 06-04-2010, 06:21 PM

It's interesting that despite people saying there's not much difference there are many more posts about mosquitos in the Madison forum. Do you thinkthat means the bugs are more aof a concern there?