Home >> Science & Nature >> Insects & Science

How to Trap Yellow Flies

As many campers will tell you, yellow flies -- also commonly referred to as deer flies -- can cause great annoyance and discomfort. Female flies bite and feed on the blood of humans and other mammals such as pets and livestock. These bites are very painful and, in some cases, can cause allergic reactions. Yellow flies are very stubborn, however, trapping them is a simple and effective way of dealing with the pesky critters.

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase a set of disposable items in bright blue hues. Plastic plates and cups are ideal because they are inexpensive and can be tossed away afterwards. At the time of publication, studies from the University of Florida determined that yellow flies were more attracted to blue than any other color tested by researchers. Using items in this color will catch the fly's eye and help to lure it into your trap.
- 2
  Cover the plates, cups or other disposable items with an adhesive substance. Sticky substances that are specifically designed to trap insects are widely available, but a strong glue will work equally well. The adhesive acts to catch the yellow fly when it lands and trap it in place.
- 3
  Attach the trap to a moving object such as a vehicle, boat or lawnmower. Yellow flies are attracted by motion and will target moving objects first. You can also attach the trap to an item of clothing you are wearing, such as a hat. If none of these options are available, traps can be placed in and around the problem area.
- 4
  Throw out your traps when they have accumulated too many yellow flies. Replace the used traps with new ones to keep the yellow fly problem to a minimum.

Insects & Science