DIY Yellow Jacket Trap - Cheap Easy 2-Liter Bottle Trick - All Natural

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through creating a DIY yellow jacket trap using a simple 2-liter bottle. This method is not only cost-effective but also all-natural, making it a safe option for protecting your hummingbird feeders during late summer. The trap works by attracting yellow jackets with sweet smells, utilizing fermenting sugars and yeast.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you start, make sure you have the following items on hand:

• A 2-liter plastic soda bottle
• Scissors or a sharp knife
• Sugar (about 1 cup)
• Baker's yeast (1 tablespoon)
• Warm water (about 2 cups)
• Optional: Sweet liquids (like fruit juice or soda)
• Optional: A small piece of meat (for spring traps)

Step 2: Prepare the Bottle

1. Cut the Bottle: Use scissors or a knife to carefully cut the 2-liter bottle in half.
   • Cut around 1/3 from the top, creating a funnel-like shape.
2. Invert the Top: Take the top half of the bottle (the funnel) and invert it into the bottom half.
   • This creates a trap that allows yellow jackets to enter but makes it difficult for them to escape.

Step 3: Create the Attractant

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a separate container, combine:
   • 1 cup of sugar
   • 1 tablespoon of baker's yeast
   • 2 cups of warm water
2. Stir Well: Mix the ingredients until the sugar is dissolved and the yeast is activated.
3. Pour into the Trap: Carefully pour this mixture into the bottom half of the bottle.

Step 4: Set Up the Trap

1. Position the Trap: Place the trap in an area where you’ve noticed yellow jackets, ideally near your hummingbird feeders.
2. Secure the Trap: If necessary, use stakes or rocks to secure the trap in place, preventing it from tipping over.

Step 5: Monitor and Maintain the Trap

1. Check Regularly: Inspect the trap every few days to see if it’s catching yellow jackets.
2. Replace Attractant: Refresh the mixture as needed, especially if it starts to smell or the liquid level drops.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do Not Use Poisons: The goal is to manage yellow jackets naturally.
• Avoid Sweets in Spring: Use protein (like small pieces of meat) in spring as yellow jackets are more attracted to protein sources then.

Conclusion

Creating a DIY yellow jacket trap is a simple and effective way to protect your hummingbird feeders from these pests. By using natural ingredients and a straightforward design, you can easily manage yellow jacket populations without resorting to harmful chemicals. Remember to monitor your trap regularly and refresh the attractant as necessary. Happy trapping!