In this stage of development, mosquitoes are often referred to as“ wigglers.” They live close to the water surface and are easy to observe, wiggling around like little worms. As filter feeders, the larvae ingest and feed on microorganisms in the water and molt several times before pupating and finally emerging as adults.

Eliminating Standing Water

Rainwater that collects in outdoor areas creates easy places for female mosquitoes to lay their eggs. These areas can include rain gutters, tree holes, old tires, rain barrels, tarps, buckets, birdbaths, ornamental ponds, plant trays, pot saucers and even places as small as bottle caps. A mosquito can lay her eggs in as little as 1 to 2 ounces of water.

Removing areas of standing water will help curb mosquito populations, but it is impossible to eliminate them all on ranch and acreage properties. Fortunately, a natural option exists for controlling mosquito populations in your landscape.

Using Bti for Mosquito Control

Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies israelensis( Bti for short) is a naturally occurring bacterium found in soil. It contains spores that produce toxins lethal to the larvae of mosquitoes, fungus gnats and blackflies only.

Bti is available in the form of Mosquito Dunks, a natural mosquito larvicide. Resembling a small beige donut, these“ dunks” are designed to float on standing water. As they slowly dissolve, they release Bti throughout the water column. Developing mosquito larvae ingest the bacterium, which acts as a gut disrupter. The larvae stop feeding and die before becoming pupae. They never develop into flying, biting, disease-carrying adults.

Mosquito Dunks are effective and easy to use— simply

Did you know that only female mosquitoes bite?

place them in areas of standing water. Each dunk will treat 100 square feet of water surface regardless of depth for 30 days or more. They are approved for organic production and gardening under National Organic Program guidelines and are Environmental Protection Agency-registered for use in animal watering troughs and fish habitats. Bonus: they are non-toxic to livestock, fish, pets, birds, beneficial insects and other wildlife.

For small areas of standing water like birdbaths, plant trays and pot saucers, Bti is available in the form of Mosquito Dunk Chunks. The wedge-shaped pieces work just like dunks and will cover up to 25 square feet of water, regardless of depth, for 30 days.

Bti is also available in granular form as Mosquito Bits. These work within 24 hours and provide a quick kill of mosquito larvae. They are ideal for broadcast applications in large areas of standing water that can be difficult to treat with dunks. As an added benefit, Mosquito Bits are also labeled for biological control of fungus gnats in potted plants.

Run-Tiger’ s Automated Chicken Feeder Simplifies Feeding and Reduces Pests

Run-Tiger’ s latest innovation, an automated chicken feeder, ensures poultry owners can rest easy, even when away. Slovenian innovator Jure Markic, founder of Run-Chicken, built on his automated chicken coop doors to create a feeder that simplifies feeding, reduces pests and offers a stylish, durable solution for routine care.

The feeder’ s key feature is its programmability. It allows users to set feeding times, creating a consistent routine for chickens and aiding egg collection. The system also prevents pests, such as mice, from accessing food. It operates via Bluetooth and can be controlled through a smartphone, with settings that adjust based on light levels or a timer. The feeder can handle up to eight chickens per week, with an 11-pound feed capacity, reducing the need for frequent refills.

Constructed from high-quality aluminum, the feeder is lightweight yet durable and runs on two AA alkaline batteries. It offers flexible mounting options and is best placed in sheltered, non-humid locations. Markic’ s vision for Run-Chicken is to create affordable, innovative products that push the boundaries of poultry care while reinvesting profits into ongoing development.

Run-Tiger | www. run-chicken. com

Durango Boots Partners With AgPack to Support Farmers and Ranchers

Durango Boots has joined the AgPack national program, offering exclusive discounts and rebates to farmers and ranchers who purchase qualifying vehicles from certified agriculture dealers. As part of the partnership, Durango Boots will provide a 25 % discount on qualifying products. The collaboration is a natural fit, as both organizations share a commitment to the rural farm and ranch community and are partners with the Professional Rodeo and Cowboys Association.

AgPack redemption savings in 2023 averaged $ 14,828 per truck for farmers and ranchers. By combining all available benefits, including those from Durango Boots, savings could exceed $ 45,000 on everyday products.

“ Our Durango brand stands committed to serving the agriculture market by providing best in class footwear and will be able to do so even more by aligning with AgPack,” Durango Boots Marketing Manager Erin DeLong said.

Durango | www. durangoboots. com