Audubon Texas supports governmental agencies in their commitment to human health and safety, and recognizes that West Nile virus presents a serious threat to the health of humans and wildlife. We support mosquito control tactics that are science-based and cause the least amount of harm to natural systems. These strategies are not only more effective but have fewer negative effects on humans, wildlife, rivers, and streams. We believe that one of the most important strategies in mosquito control is what everyday Texans can do in their yards and neighborhoods to protect against West Nile virus. 

Mosquito Control Tactics

Integrated mosquito management by governmental agencies should include:

- Surveillance and monitoring of West Nile virus-carrying mosquitoes and human cases by public agencies and qualified research entities

- Source reduction (i.e. draining shallow standing water) to minimize potential mosquito breeding sites

- Larval control by treating shallow, stagnant bodies of water with minimally impactful larvicide or alternative control methods (see our Pesticide Guide)

- Adult control by responsible, targeted ground spraying only in areas where positive test results are present. Audubon Texas considers this as a last resort measure triggered only by significant threat to human health

Personal Prevention

Do your part to support mosquito control in your community. Practice the
“four D’s” of personal West Nile virus prevention early and often:

- Stay indoors at dawn and dusk

- Dress in long sleeves and pants when outside

- Wear a DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or picaridin repellent whenever outdoors, according to label instructions

- Drain any standing water in your yard or neighborhood

Check out our helpful 4D's reminder and full policy and easy to understand pesticide guide to learn more about personal prevention and the mosquito control tactics available in Texas.

Downloadable Resources

audubon_texas_west_nile_virus_position.pdf