Pest Control and Bug Zappers

Identify the pest first, then pick bait, trap or repellent

Check the pest type on the listing first: rats and mice, roaches or bed bugs call for different tools. Liquid and gel ant baits work slowly, because workers carry them back to the nest. Many bait stations are tamper resistant and replacement keys fit specific station models. Fruit fly traps use refill cartridges, and Japanese beetle traps should sit well away from plants you want to protect, since the lure draws beetles in. Mosquito traps use attractants such as octenol in refills.

Zappers, refills and safety around pets and children

Bug zappers lure flying insects to an electrified grid. They kill many harmless or helpful insects and catch few mosquitoes, so place them away from seating, under cover from rain. Refills, glue boards and lure cartridges fit specific models, so match the model number. Rodent baits and sticky boards are hazardous around pets and children: use tamper-resistant stations out of reach, follow the label, keep products in their original containers and wear gloves.

Questions about Pest Control and Bug Zappers

Do bug zappers get rid of mosquitoes?

Not reliably. Zappers attract and kill many flying insects, but few of them are biting mosquitoes, and many are harmless or beneficial. For mosquitoes, use repellents, fans, standing-water control and traps designed with a mosquito lure.

How do liquid ant baits work?

Worker ants take the sweet bait back to the nest and share it, which affects the colony over time. Place baits along trails, keep sprays away so ants do not avoid the bait, and allow several days to see results.

Is rodent bait safe around pets?

Rodent poisons are dangerous to pets and children, and to wildlife that eat poisoned rodents. Use tamper-resistant bait stations placed out of reach, follow the label, and consider snap or enclosed traps where pets roam.