Hillsborough County is giving away mosquitofish - find an eco-friendly giveaway event near you!
As mosquito season ramps up, Hillsborough County Mosquito Management Services is excited to offer a natural solution to help residents reduce mosquito breeding in their yards and surrounding areas - free mosquitofish. Starting March 29, all Hillsborough County residents, including those in Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City, can receive these tiny, but powerful, mosquito-fighting fish at designated giveaway events.
Why Mosquitofish?
Mosquitofish are a simple, eco-friendly, and sustainable way to control mosquito populations and help reduce the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. These small, native freshwater fish feed on mosquito larvae, reducing the number of adult mosquitoes before they can hatch.
Mosquitofish facts
- They thrive in intentional standing water, such as ponds, fountains, animal troughs, and unused swimming pools
- They require no feeding - just a safe environment free of chemicals like chlorine or garden sprays.
- Unlike other fish, they don't lay eggs and don't require a special breeding environment.
- Hillsborough County aims to raise 100% of its mosquitofish supply locally to ensure healthier, more sustainable mosquitofish populations.
What to know before you go
- Bring a photo ID showing your Hillsborough County residency
- County staff will enter or scan your ID into the mosquito management database
- Fish are available while supplies last
Learn more at the events
In addition to receiving free fish, residents can visit the Mosquito Management Public Education Trailer at each giveaway event to learn practical tips on preventing mosquito breeding in their own backyards.
Schedule and locations
Mosquitofish will be available, unless otherwise noted, from 8 AM to noon on the following Saturdays:
- March 29 - (9 AM) - Hillsborough County West Service Unit (Public Service Day), 9805 Sheldon Rd., Tampa, FL 33635
- April 26 - (9 AM - 1 PM) - 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
- Aug. 23 - Northdale Park & Recreation Center, 15510 Hooting Owls Pl., Tampa, FL 33624
For additional mosquito control resources, visit HCFL.Gov/Mosquito or call (813) 635-5400.