QUESTION: How do pheromone traps work?
ANSWER: Pheromones are natural compounds that are created in the body of an insect. Insects use pheromones to communicate with each other. We have isolated many of these compounds in the laboratory and use them to lure the insects into a sticky trap.
These traps should be used in areas where the insects are likely to be found. Indian Meal Moth traps should be placed in any area that contains items such as grain products, cereal, nuts, dried fruit, dried flowers, bird seed or pet food.
Webbing Cloth Moth traps should be placed in areas that contain items the larvae feed on such as wool, hair, feathers, fur and upholstered furniture (containing natural wool and leather). Basically any product containing natural fibers is susceptible.
Pheromone traps are meant to be used as part of an integrated approach to pest control. Sanitation, inspection and removal of infested material are all very important parts of an integrated approach.
Although there is no exact number of traps that you should use, we can give you some general guidelines. In small areas, we recommend three to four traps per 1,000 square feet, but in larger areas such as warehouses and retail stores, placing traps every 25-50 feet apart on a grid pattern is the recommended rate. This can be increased or decreased based on how closely you want to monitor for these insects. The recommended height is at eye level.
In order to ensure the highest efficiency, it is recommended that the lure be replaced every 60 days. The traps do not require changing unless they are either full of insects (and not catch anymore) or are no longer sticky. If kept in a freezer or refrigerator, all lures should be good for at least two years.
For best results, contact Poulin’s Pest Control at 1-888-768-5467. Our trained experts will know the products needed for your situation and the critical locations to where traps are necessary.