In the lush landscapes of DeBary, Florida, where the beauty of nature abounds, residents often find themselves contending with a common adversary – mosquitoes. However, the City of DeBary, in collaboration with Volusia County Mosquito Control, has implemented strategic measures to address this issue. This article explores how residents can actively contribute to mosquito reduction efforts by harnessing the power of nature through bat houses and dragonflies.
The City's Commitment:
The City of DeBary recognizes the importance of maintaining a healthy and enjoyable environment for its residents. In partnership with Volusia County Mosquito Control, the city has been proactive in addressing any mosquito challenges through routine spraying programs and the installation of bat houses. These initiatives aim to reduce mosquito populations and create a more comfortable outdoor experience for residents.
Bat Houses: A Natural Solution
Bats are voracious consumers of mosquitoes, making them valuable allies in the fight against these pesky insects. Installing bat houses provides a habitat for these nocturnal creatures, encouraging them to take up residence in the area. The City of DeBary has bat houses installed in strategic locations such as Rob Sullivan, River City Nature Park, and DeBary Hall Historic Site to promote a natural balance in the local ecosystem. The City is actively continuing its efforts by working with new communities and exploring additional locations to install bat houses on public property.
Did you know that one little brown bat can eat over 1,000 mosquito-sized insects in one night?
How to Build Your Own Bat House:
Residents are encouraged to install bat houses on their properties. These structures provide shelter for bats during the day and attract them to the area, helping to control mosquito populations naturally. Installing a bat house is a fantastic way to invite these flying mammals to your property without needing a permit.
Step 1: Select an Appropriate Location: Bat houses should be
Mounted on a pole or a building about 10 to 15 feet above the ground (bats do not typically choose to live in bat houses mounted in trees)
Receiving at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day
Ideally near a water source
Bat house structures are allowed within the City of DeBary as long as they are less than 20ft tall. It's essential to be mindful of your property's easements. DO NOT build a bat house in your property's utility easement (which can be found on your property survey). If you have any questions regarding the placement of a bat house, contact City Hall's Planning and Zoning department at 386-601-0210.
Step 2: Call before you dig: If you are digging a hole to install a bat house, Call 811 before any digging projects (both big and small). Florida law states that property owners MUST call 811 or visit sunshine811.com at least two full business days before digging to check if there are any utility easements on their land.
Step 3: Buy or Build Your Bat House:
Building: If you plan to build your bat house, The National Wildlife Federation offers a beginner's step-by-step guide. While there are many designs you could use for your bat house, below are a few downloadable plans:
Buying: When buying a pre-made bat house, ideally, the house should be at least 24" high and 16" wide. Small bat houses do not offer thermal stability. Also, be sure your bat house does NOT contain fabric. Roosting boards and landing pads should consist of roughened wood.
Due to DeBary's climate, it is recommended that the exterior of bat houses be painted with a medium to light shade of paint.
"Your goal is to make a bat house that mimics the space between bark and a tree trunk. That would be the bats' ideal nursery. That's why the space inside a bat house is very narrow, unlike a bird house which would house a nest. Bats like tight spaces. They also need it nice and warm for the babies." -Bat Conservation International
Step 4: Mount the Bat House Securely: Install the Bat House securely, ensuring it is stable and won't sway in the wind. Face the opening southward or southeast to maximize exposure to sunlight.
Step 5: Monitor Regularly: After installation, monitor the bat house regularly to check for occupancy and maintenance needs. Bats may take some time to discover and inhabit the new structure.
Step 6: Educate Neighbors: Spread awareness about the benefits of bat houses and encourage neighbors to join the initiative. A collective effort can significantly amplify the impact of mosquito reduction throughout the community.
Dragonflies: Nature's Aerial Acrobats:
Dragonflies are not only fascinating to observe but also effective predators of mosquitoes. Their swift and agile flight makes them formidable hunters, preying on mosquitoes in mid-air. By creating an environment that attracts dragonflies, residents can benefit from their natural mosquito control abilities.
Tips for Attracting Dragonflies:
Water Features: Dragonflies lay their eggs in water, making the presence of ponds or other water features attractive to them. Consider adding a small pond or water garden to your property. Just be sure to not have stagnant water on your property as this can attract mosquitoes to lay their eggs.
Native Plants: Dragonflies are drawn to native plants, which provide suitable resting spots and attract the insects that they feed on. Planting native vegetation can create an ideal habitat for dragonflies. Incorporating plants like black-eyed Susan or Rudbeckia hirta, swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata, or even the Joe-pye weed (Eupatorium fistulosum) will attract tiny pollinators, which also serve as food for the dragonflies.
In the battle against mosquitoes, the City of DeBary is committed to a multifaceted approach, combining routine spraying programs with environmentally friendly solutions. By embracing the natural allies of bats and dragonflies, residents can actively contribute to reducing mosquito populations while enhancing the overall ecological balance of the community. Through collaboration and a shared commitment to environmental stewardship, DeBary can continue to thrive as a place where residents and nature coexist harmoniously.
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