Gyeyang District's Proactive Pest Control Reduces 'Love Bug' Population, Residents Say

Residents in Incheon's Gyeyang District are reporting a noticeable reduction in the "love bug" population this summer, attributing the change to proactive pest control measures implemented by the district office. The district initiated its campaign in mid-May, focusing on the larvae of the red-striped leaf beetle, commonly known as "love bugs," in areas like Gyeyangsan and Cheonmasan mountains.

Control efforts escalated in June as adult insects became more active. The district deployed over 500 personnel, utilizing biological microbial agents (Bti), installing 195 roll traps along hiking trails, and employing 52 water spray vehicles. Approximately 1,557 kilograms of Bti agent were used in the operation.

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This year, the love bugs have decreased significantly.

District officials believe these preemptive actions have significantly reduced the "love bug" presence in key areas, including the summit of Gyeyangsan. On-site inspections have reportedly confirmed residents' observations of a "greatly reduced" insect population compared to last year. Following the pest control period, the district plans to remove all installed roll traps and maintain the hiking trails to ensure a pleasant environment.

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We will thoroughly maintain the hiking trail environment after removing the installed roll traps at the end of the pest control period to preserve a pleasant forest environment.