Abstract: An autonomous robotic system and method for removing pests from a specific location. The robotic system of the invention preferably comprises a means for attracting pests to at least one specific location; and a robotic means for collecting and/or exterminating pests attracted to the specified location. In certain embodiments, the robotic means comprises a mobile robot and a means for navigating the robotic means. In operation, pests are attracted to at least one location by an attracting means, and these pests are then collected and/or exterminated by a mobile, autonomous robot of the invention.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the populations of harmful arthropods. The method employs a decoy shaped like a female arthropod which includes a volatile sex attractant pheromone and a mounting pheromone which, in combination, induce mating behavior in arthropods. The decoy also includes a pesticide encapsulated therein which contaminates male arthropods upon physical contact with the decoys.