Mosquito season has officially begun and Hillsborough County residents will have various opportunities to pick up free mosquito fish this summer, at events across the county, according to a news release.
Homeowners can use the fish to help fight the insects on their property.
The free giveaways are only for Hillsborough residents who have intentional standing water, such as koi ponds or other bodies of water that are filled 12 months a year.
Mosquito fish fight mosquitoes before the insects can bite, by eating mosquito larvae. They are small enough to hide from predators, and their favorite food is mosquito larvae, according to the release.
Hillsborough operates its own mosquito fish hatchery to breed healthy fish for the giveaways.
The Mosquito Management Services educational trailer also will be on site at each event to help residents learn about eliminating the pests and to illustrate the work the county does to keep residents healthy and safe.
To receive fish, a resident must show photo ID proof of living in Hillsborough County so county staff can scan or enter the ID information into the county’s mosquito database.
Quantities of the fish are limited and will be available only while supplies last.
For a complete list of dates and locations for upcoming giveaways, visit HillsboroughCounty.org/en/newsroom/2023/04/28/fight-mosquitoes-with-free-fish.
Published May 24, 2023
