Apitura TRAP-X Instructions

The Importance of Responsible Trapping!

At Apitura, we understand the irreplaceable ecological role of beneficial insects and pollinators in maintaining biodiversity. Rather than relying solely on indiscriminate trapping methods, TRAP-X was designed to balance effective invasive species control with the preservation of these crucial insect species.

Ecological Balance: Non-target insects play important roles in ecosystems, including pollination, pest control, and decomposition. Unintentionally catching of these insects can disrupt ecological balances and harm biodiversity.

Beneficial Insects: Many insects caught as bycatch may be beneficial, such as pollinators like bees and hoverflies or predators that control pest populations. Catching them inadvertently can harm ecological systems and natural habitats.

Trap Effectiveness: Excessive bycatch can reduce the effectiveness of the trap by distracting or deterring the target species. By minimising bycatch, the trap can focus on capturing the intended pest species more efficiently.

Overall, minimising bycatch in hornet traps is not only ethically responsible, but also contributes to effective pest management strategies that prioritise ecosystem health and sustainability.

Inserting and removing the TRAP-X Safety Clamps

Inserting the Clamp

Insert the clamp into the lid opening at an angle and rotate until it is fully inserted.

Use your thumb or the palm of your hand to close the clamp onto the bucket lower rim. Apply a little pressure until you feel the clamp pop into the closed position.

LOCKING the Clamp

Simply push the clamp lower edge upwards away from bucket until released.

UNLOCKING the Clamp

Setting & Baiting your TRAP-X

  1. Prepare a level stand for your trap and then release the three security clamps from the edge of the trap lid.

  2. If you are using liquid or solid bait in a container, place the trap on it’s side and then carefully add the bait container into the bottom/back of the trap.

    A cut comb container would work well and will be available from any good beekeeping equipment supplier. If you are using liquid bait, soak a sponge in the bait first and then cover with a fine mesh. This is crucial to prevent bycatch insects from coming into contact with the bait directly, thereby avoiding contamination or impairment.

    Replace the lid and click the three safety clamps back in place, keeping the handle uppermost. To improve the level of the trap place the handle underneath the bucket where it will act as a foot and then replace the lid.

  3. Use a hive strap to hold the trap in place.

Destroying The Hornets

  1. Before undertaking this process make every effort to release any bycatch by agitating the trap. Do not open the trap with live hornets inside.

  2. To destroy the hornets, simply turn the trap up onto its base and fill the trap with water, leaving it until all hornets have perished.

    Alternatively place the whole trap in a freezer and leave for at least 2 hours, until all hornets have perished. A trap that has just been removed from the freezer will be brittle. Allow the trap to return to ambient temperature before opening it to avoid damage.

  3. Remove the trap lid, dispose of the dead hornets, rinse out and reset the trap.

Trap Placement Strategies

Proximity to Hives: Where you site your traps depends on whether you are trapping for queens or workers. Do not site your traps near to your hives in spring when trapping queens. From July onwards when you will be trapping workers, place your traps in closer proximity to hives, where Asian hornets frequently launch their attacks on foraging bees. By strategically siting traps near hives, you can intercept hornets, which may help to reduce predation on your honeybee colonies.

Along Perimeter Fences and Boundaries: Asian hornets often patrol the perimeter of apiaries in search of prey. Establishing a barrier of traps along perimeter fences and boundaries serves as an effective deterrent, intercepting hornets before they infiltrate the apiary. Ensure traps are evenly spaced along the perimeter to maximise coverage and efficiency.

Elevated Positions: Mounting traps at elevated positions, such as on trees or poles, offers several advantages. Asian hornets tend to fly at higher altitudes when scouting for prey, making elevated traps more visible and enticing. Additionally, elevated traps are less susceptible to interference from ground-level obstacles, vegetation and other foraging animals.

Maintenance and Monitoring Protocols: Regular maintenance and monitoring is essential to ensure the ongoing effectiveness of your traps. Conduct frequent inspections to remove or destroy captured hornets and replenish bait as needed.

Deploying Asian hornet traps strategically around or within your apiary is a proactive measure to protect your honeybee colonies from these invasive predators. By employing a multifaceted approach that includes trap deployment along perimeter fences or in elevated positions and later in the season near to hives, you can maximise their efficiency in intercepting Asian hornets. Remember to adhere to regular maintenance and monitoring routines to ensure your traps remain effective.

IMPORTANT!
Before working with any stinging insects such as hornets, make sure you are using the correct protective clothing and equipment.