First attempt at "Termite Traps"

[ToadPaparazzi]

After reading through many different threads regarding termites as feeders, I decided to give it a go at trapping some. I really was drawn towards the PVC method. I couldn't find any 4" pvc at a local Home Depot, so i grabbed two 2' x 6" pieces, two 6" drain caps and a few large cardboard boxes. Please see photojournal below...

Step 1: Soak cardboard so it is more plyable.


Step 2: Rip cardboard to desired length. I decided that I would let the cardboard stick approx 3" below the tube.


Step 3: Roll cardboard together so that it fits snug in the tube.




Step 4: Place wet piece of cardboard scrap in drain cap in order to help lock in moisture and at the same time, keep light out. I chose to use drainage caps to allow good ventilation and easy access to view/add water to the cardboard.


Step 5: Cap tube.

Step 6: Locate termites. This spot has lots of dry-rotted wood and I have seen plenty of termites and even a few slender salamanders in this pile.


Step 7: Dig 6-8" deep hole allowing at least 2" of play around the tube.

Step 8: Place tube in hole.

Step 9: Fill dirt back in around tube and tamp around for added stability.


This is my first attempt... I hope in a few weeks I can expect to see some termites living in here... I also forgot to take into consideration before starting this that it might be too late in to the year to do this... Oh well if so, at least I have a trap ready to go!

Cheers!

[John]

I really like this idea. Let us know how you get on - it would make a great article if it works .

[ToadPaparazzi]

*Fingers crossed* I will be checking the trap for moisture every few days and will be removing it September 21st.

I am also going to go into the mountains hopefully this weekend to find a good spot for trap #2. I've seen logs infested with termites in the mountains.

[MonsterPyxie]

is the moisture a must or is it just helping to attract them?

We have some old wood on the in-laws property that the dogs got into the other day, and seems they are infested, but the wood is bone dry, and our climate here is always dry.

[ToadPaparazzi]

Im using moisture to attract them.