Helicopter Mosquito Treatment

Published on Monday, 2 November 2026 at 8:58:04 PM

Mosquito Helicopter Treatment of Larval Breeding Site

WHO | Environmental Health team

WHAT | An accredited helicopter contractor will conduct larvicide treatment dispersing insect growth regulator larvicide across the wetland to specifically target mosquito larvae breeding sites. The larvicides are non-toxic and species-specific, applied at rates of 6.5kg per hectare.

WHERE | Coastal wetlands Dalyellup to Rich Road, Stratham over an area of 35 hectares (ha).

WHEN | Wednesday 04 November 2026 from 9am AWST

WHY | The Shire is aware the wetlands are currently generating up to 3200 larvae per square metre. Biting adults are likely to be present at this time of the year due to the large volumes of standing water across the Shire.

HOW | Helicopter working at a low level above or just below tree top height across these areas. Post treatment surveys are undertaken to determine the effectiveness of the treatment. Post-treatment observation and sampling of larvae/pupae in the wetlands is conducted, and reports submitted to the Department of Health for assessment.

Additional Key Information

Please note that mosquito-borne viruses have not been detected so far this season, however the Shire highly recommends taking protective measures to avoid being bitten.

The most effective way to avoid being bitten is:

COVER UP | wear long, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing, covering as much of the body as you can.

REPEL | apply an effective insect repellent containing DEET (diethyltoluamide), picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE, also known as PMD) evenly to exposed skin.

CLEAN UP | remove, empty or cover water-holding containers. Keep your grass short to stop mosquitoes hanging around your home.

FOR MORE please visit: https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/N_R/Prevent-mosquito-bites-at-home

Contact the Shire’s Environmental Health Services Team on 08 9727 0222 or via info@capel.wa.gov.au if you have any questions.