Fly traps are a great way to manage insect populations during the warmer months and work as a standalone method or alongside other control regimes like cold fogging and insecticides.
Fly traps have the advantage of providing 24-hour control plus are relatively inexpensive compared to other methods. Outdoor traps are also more environmentally friendly and avoid chemicals and pesticides.
In this article, we'll uncover how fly traps work and how to use them effectively. Let's get into it!
So, How Long Do Fly Traps Last?
You might as well ask the obvious first question: how long is a piece of string?
Water-activated outdoor fly trap bags state how many flies the bag can catch before they’re full - often as many as 20,000. So, let's get counting! Helpfully, the manufacturer provides an average usage period for the specific product.
How long a trap lasts depends on factors like the infestation level, the weather conditions, and if the trap is in the correct location.
If there is a real problem, the traps will do their job but become ineffective more quickly. In low-density areas, they can last for months.
Do Fly Traps Dry Out?
The bait in outdoor traps is an insect-specific pheromone.
Insects and animals use pheromones to communicate with each other. These clever chemicals are being explored at scale as a natural alternative to more conventional pesticides in agriculture.
Sunlight and the addition of water activate the pheromone in an outdoor fly trap and attract flies in volume.
Because the trap must be in a sunny location, the water eventually dries out, so these traps have a life cycle before they begin to lose effectiveness.
How Often Should You Change Fly Traps?
Regular monitoring will ensure the efficiency of fly traps. If they’re no longer attracting new insects or look full, then it’s time to change them. How frequently this happens depends on the location and the trap’s effectiveness.
The manufacturer will state the maximum insect capacity on the product and the average time the trap will work before it needs replacement.
Understanding where fly infestations occur and their causes will also help site the trap in the best location.
How To Prolong the Life of a Fly Trap
Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions
It’s essential to replace the traps frequently to maintain control of fly populations.
Follow the instructions with the trap and note the installation date. You can even write or tag the bag. Even if the trap isn’t full after the recommended period, it’s still best to replace it, as the pheromone will be losing its efficacy.
Buy in Bulk
Bad weather events like heavy rain damage and destroy outdoor traps. We recommend having a couple of spare products so your control is continuous and effective.
Consider reusing!
Some people tip out the bags and then refill them with a sweet mix of water, honey, or sweetened fruit juice. However, this won’t be as effective as the original.
Looking for Fly Traps? Shop Dalton Engineering!
Outdoor traps are excellent for fly control during warmer months and manage both the existing population and any specific infestations.
They’re economically priced, avoid pesticides and harsh chemicals, and are environmentally friendly. Best of all, they work all the time so you can get on with something more important.
Find the best brands with guaranteed results and shop Dalton Engineering for a comprehensive range of fly traps for all farming and outdoor environments. Wave goodbye to your fly problem for good!