HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – Hillsborough County braces for the summer rainy season and the inevitable surge in mosquito populations, Mosquito Management Services is once again offering residents a natural weapon in the fight against these pests: free mosquitofish.
Starting this Saturday, April 26th, the county will host a series of giveaway events where residents can collect these small, native freshwater fish. Mosquitofish are effective predators of mosquito larvae, consuming them in standing water before they can mature into biting adults. This initiative provides an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical treatments for controlling mosquitoes in specific settings.
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The program is designed for residents who have intentional standing water on their property, such as ornamental ponds, fountains, bird baths, animal troughs, or unused swimming pools that remain filled year-round. County staff will be present at the events to discuss the intended location for the fish, ensuring they are placed in suitable environments where they can thrive and effectively manage mosquito larvae.
Mosquitofish are a sustainable way to help control mosquito populations right in your backyard. By eating the larvae, they interrupt the mosquito life cycle naturally.
Hillsborough County raises its own mosquitofish at the Mosquito Management Services headquarters, promoting a healthier, locally-adapted supply compared to fish transported from elsewhere.
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These fish require minimal care, needing no supplemental feeding, but should be protected from chemicals like chlorine or garden sprays.
To receive free mosquitofish, residents must:
- Attend one of the scheduled giveaway events.
- Provide a photo ID verifying Hillsborough County residency.
- Allow staff to enter their ID information into the county’s mosquito database.
Fish are available in limited quantities on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.
2025 Mosquitofish Giveaway Schedule:
All events run from 8 a.m. to noon unless otherwise specified:
- April 26 (9 a.m. – 1 p.m.): Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI), 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, FL 33617
- May 17: Southshore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin, FL 33573
- June 21: Oscar Cooler Sports Complex, 766 W. Lutz Lake Fern Rd., Lutz, FL 33548
- July 19: Fishhawk Sports Complex, 16000 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, FL 33547
- August 23: Northdale Park & Recreation Center, 15510 Hooting Owls Pl., Tampa, FL 33624
Residents attending the events can also speak with mosquito scientists to learn more about mosquito biology and protection methods.
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