How to Trap Black Wasps
Black wasps, also referred to as katydid killers, are non-aggressive wasps that are blue-black in color and are typically larger than other species of wasps at 1 1/2 inches in length. They feed on nectar and sap. They also feed on insects and are a beneficial component in pest control.
Wasps can become a nuisance if they have built their nest near people, pets and homes. The best time to trap wasps is in the early spring when the queen wasps are present. Trapping and eliminating the queen wasps will deter future wasps from the area.
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Cut the top off of a 2-liter plastic soda bottle using a razor knife. Place the cut just above the shoulder of the bottle.
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Remove the screw top.
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Fill the bottle halfway with water. Place a few drops of liquid dish soap in the water.
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Line the neck of the bottle with jam.
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Invert the top of the bottle and place it into the body of the bottle.
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Tape the inverted top of the bottle to the body using two small pieces of tape.
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Trap the wasps. Wasps will be attracted to the sweet jam placed on the neck of the bottle. They will fly down the funnel to get to the jam, find it difficult to get out and drop into the water and drown.
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Empty the trap daily. As more wasps are collected, they will build a layer on top of the water preventing future wasps from drowning and allowing them to escape.
Things You Will Need
- 2-liter plastic soda bottle
- Razor knife
- Tape
- Water
- Liquid dish soap
- Jam
Tip
Contact a local pest control professional if you don’t feel comfortable trapping wasps. These professionals have the right equipment to properly and safely trap and dispose of wasps.
Warning
Do not try to trap and kill wasps if you are allergic to wasp or bee stings.
References
Writer Bio
Diana Braun began her writing career as a consultant and technical writer for a software company focusing on how-to, training, white paper, and internal process documentation. After two years, Braun left to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams. Since then, she has launched several startups including a t-shirt business, an online marketing and advertising t-shirt distribution business, and an entertainment site. She currently resides in South Florida.
Photo Credits
- George Doyle/Stockbyte/Getty Images
- George Doyle/Stockbyte/Getty Images
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