News & Information
Message From the President: Myth Busters
August 6, 2009
I recently received a memo from Timothy Gibb, an Extension Entomologist at the Purdue Extension Department of Entomology. The memo discussed methods of mosquito control – some effective and some less than effective. Gibb mentioned the fact that folks sometimes send him outlandish suggestions with the belief that they really work. For example, one man suggested that he start using Listerine to control mosquitoes. The man was thrilled because he could get a bottle of the mouthwash for much less than a can of bug spray. And, the mouthwash even worked on the dog house!
Without making a long story even longer, I wanted to address some of the myths out there.
Myth 1: Bug Zappers Control Mosquitoes – Even though bug zappers sound like they're doing a great job, all they're really doing is attracting more insects to your yard. According to Wayne J. Crans, Associate Research Professor at Rutgers University, less than 1% of bugs zapped are mosquitoes. Zappers are also responsible for electrocuting many beneficial insects.
Myth 2: Ultrasonic Devices Control Pests – These plug-in devices are often ineffective because not all pests are even capable of hearing into ultrasonic range. Pests can also become acclimatized to the sound. In addition, no independent studies have ever been done to support the manufacturers' claims.
Myth 3: Chewing Gum Controls Moles – This is simple. Moles eat primarily earthworms – not chewing gum.
Myth 4: Tree Traps Control Insects – Tree traps can sometimes do more harm than good. This is because they can end up attracting more problematic insects to the location that don't get trapped.
The bottom line is hundreds of thousands of professionals dedicate their entire careers to researching and developing products that effectively control pests. Unfortunately, these answers are not as simple as mouthwash and chewing gum. If you're wondering how effective a DIY product might be, send me your questions through the "Ask the Entomologist" link on our website - http://info.actionpest.com/ask_the_entomologist - before spending your money.