Abstract: A method and apparatus for repelling insects from agricultural plantings including a reflective material. The reflective material having an extremely thin, metallizing applied thereto.

Abstract: A termite detection and monitoring apparatus including a container (50) configured to hold a quantity of termite attractive food, the container (50) having at least one access opening (58) to enable termite access to the food; a termite interceptor (10) adapted to direct termites into the container (50), one end of the enterceptor (10) communicating with an access opening (58) of the container (50) and the other end of the interceptor (10) extending in a direction away from the container (50), and a termite activity indicator (60) associated with the container (50) adapted to indicate a predetermined level of termite activity in the container (50).

Abstract: The present invention discloses an article for preventing pests from gaining entrance to a building structure. The article comprises a length of fibrous fabric and a plurality of adhesive strips. The fabric is designed for adhesive attachment to a dwelling or building structure adjacent points of entry and the adhesive strips are designed for adhesively attaching the fabric in snug adjacency to the outfitted building structure. The fabric is impregnated with at least one pesticide composition and has outwardly extending fibers for entangling the legs of pests attempting to gain entrance to the building structure by maneuvering across the fabric to points of entry. These outwardly extending fibers thus directly deposit pesticide composition on the pests for preventing them from gaining entrance to the building structure. Importantly, the fabric is brilliantly colored or has highly light reflective coloration for attracting the pests to the pesticide-impregnated fabric for contact treatment.

Abstract: An assembly and method for termite ground monitoring, the assembly including an upwardly opening cylindrical housing defining an interior space; a removable lid having a flanged upper surface; a bait stick cradle fitted for downward extension into the interior space; and cradle suspending ties interconnecting the lid and the bait stick cradle; the method including steps of burying the cylindrical housing within the ground so that the interior space opens upwardly; inserting a bait stick into the bait stick cradle; inserting the bait stick cradle into the interior space; providing an extension arm having a slotted lower end; downwardly extending the extension arm toward the lid, and engaging the slot with the lid's flange; and upwardly retracting the extension arm, the lid, the bait stick cradle, and the bait stick for inspection of the bait stick.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention is a method of controlling target living species with an active ingredient over an extended period of time. This method sorbs an active ingredient into colloidal clay. Next, a polymer pellet recalcitrant to release of the active ingredient is loaded with the sorbed colloidal clay. Finally, the loaded polymer pellet is formed into a barrier, which is adapted to be placed at a location for controlling a target living species. Another aspect is a barrier for controlling a target living species. The formed barrier contains polymer pellets loaded with colloidal clay sorbed with an active ingredient that controls the target living species. The sorbed clay loaded polymer polymer pellets are recalcitrant to release of the active ingredient.

Abstract: A sheetlike article comprising a single-layer homogenous matrix containing at least one active substance such as a crop protection agent, biocide, fertilizer, plant strengthener, cosmetic substance or fragrance, is produced by applying the at least one active substance to at least one of two layers of identical composition, placing the two layers atop one another so as to enclose the at least one active substance, irreversibly joining the layers with the at least one active substance therebetween under pressure to form a laminate and storing the laminate under defined conditions for a duration sufficient to effect migration of the at least one active substance into the base layer and connection of the layers at their interfaces.

Abstract: An assembly and method for termite ground monitoring, the assembly including an upwardly opening cylindrical housing defining an interior space; a removable lid having a flanged upper surface; a bait stick cradle fitted for downward extension into the interior space; and cradle suspending ties interconnecting the lid and the bait stick cradle; the method including steps of burying the cylindrical housing within the ground so that the interior space opens upwardly; inserting a bait stick into the bait stick cradle; inserting the bait stick cradle into the interior space; providing an extension arm having a slotted lower end; downwardly extending the extension arm toward the lid, and engaging the slot with the lid's flange; and upwardly retracting the extension arm, the lid, the bait stick cradle, and the bait stick for inspection of the bait stick.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting and/or controlling subterranean termites. A station at least partially receivable within a cavity has at least one opening therein to provide access by the termites to an interior volume of the station. The apparatus also includes an aggregation base attractive to the termites received within the interior volume of the station. The aggregation base includes at least one void for forming an aggregation site for the termites. The apparatus further includes a replaceable container received within the interior volume of the station and positioned adjacent the aggregation base. The container has at least one opening in a surface thereof facing the aggregation base to permit the passage of termites from the aggregation base to an interior chamber of the container.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting and/or controlling subterranean termites. A station at least partially receivable within a cavity has at least one opening therein to provide access by the termites to an interior volume of the station. The apparatus also includes an aggregation base attractive to the termites received within the interior volume of the station. The aggregation base includes at least one void for forming an aggregation site for the termites. The apparatus further includes a replaceable container received within the interior volume of the station and positioned adjacent the aggregation base. The container has at least one opening in a surface thereof facing the aggregation base to permit the passage of termites from the aggregation base to an interior chamber of the container.

Abstract: A pest bait station includes a disposable carrier disposed in a reusable housing. Pest bait is securely affixed to the carrier such that movement of the station does not dislodge the bait from the carrier. A first bait affixed to a lower surface of the carrier exterminates smaller pests while a second bait affixed to an upper surface of the carrier exterminates larger pests. The carrier is shaped, such as a cone, to provide a lower space and an upper space for receiving differently sized pests. A lid of the housing is shaped to accommodate the shape of the cone. The lid is removably coupled to a base to form a water-tight seal. Openings formed in the base allow for entry of pests. A magnet or adhesive may be placed on a bottom side of the base to enable the station to be coupled to any surface.

Abstract: A system of sterilization of spaces and surfaces which includes a container having a plurality of walls which jointly define an inner chamber, a cover connected with the container turnably between an open position in which the inner chamber of the container is open and a closed position in which the inner chamber is closed; a plurality of compartments formed in the inner chamber and including a sprayer compartment; a mask compartment, a glove compartment, at least one encapsulant compartment, and a fungicide compartment which are separate from one another and do not communicate with one another; a uniform compartment provided in the cover; means for locking the cover with the container and unlocking the cover from the same; and elements for sterilization including a sprayer removably arranged in the sprayer compartment, a mask removably arranged in the mask compartment an encapsulant removably arranged in the at least one encapsulant compartment, a fungicide removably arranged in the fungicide compartment, at

Abstract: A subsurface pesticide injection system for use in combination with a structure having a footing formed in a base soil, a stem wall formed on the footing and defining a perimeter of the structure, a fill material disposed on the base soil within the perimeter of the stem wall, and a concrete slab formed on the fill material is provided. The concrete slab has openings extending therethrough. The subsurface pesticide injection and fluid extraction system comprising includes a tubular conduit disposed adjacent the foundation of the structure. The tubular conduit has a sidewall and a plurality of tortuous pores extending through the sidewall of the tubular conduit.

Abstract: A system of sterilization of spaces and surfaces which includes a container having a plurality of walls which jointly define an inner chamber, a cover connected with the container turnably between an open position in which the inner chamber of the container is open and a closed position in which the inner chamber is closed; a plurality of compartments formed in the inner chamber and including a sprayer compartment; a mask compartment, a glove compartment, at least one encapsulant compartment, and a fungicide compartment which are separate from one another and do not communicate with one another; a uniform compartment provided in the cover; means for locking the cover with the container and unlocking the cover from the same; and elements for sterilization including a sprayer removably arranged in the sprayer compartment, a mask removably arranged in the mask compartment an encapsulant removably arranged in the at least one encapsulant compartment, a fungicide removably arranged in the fungicide compartment, at

Abstract: A control agent delivery system useful for dispersing a pesticide, herbicide, fungicide or other biocide around a target or target area that is not directly accessible or that is hazardous to the user. The system includes a separable, two-part projectile containing a control agent disposed in a powder, liquid or gel dispersal medium, together with a gas-propelled, projectile launching device. A method of use of the subject system that causes the projectile to perform differently, depending upon the manner of launch, is also disclosed.

Abstract: Low concentrations of gossypol and related phyllophage toxins from cotton improve the effectiveness of insecticidal agents against social insects, including cockroaches, and particularly termites and ants. Levels of gossypol and other cotton phyllophage toxins which are sufficiently low as to be non-biocidal to social insects alone, will significantly increase the control efficacy of other insecticidal agents. Consequently, use of these low levels of these cotton phyllophage toxins allows the levels of insecticidal agents necessary for effectively controlling the insects to be significantly reduced relative to applications without cotton phyllophage toxins. Furthermore, insecticidal agents which are normally ineffective for control of social insects when used alone, may be effective when used in conjunction with the cotton phyllophage toxins.

Abstract: The present invention provides materials and methods for pest control. The subject invention provides pesticidal compositions that contain one or more compounds that interact with organic solute transporter/ligand-gated ion channel multifunction polypeptides in the pest. Upon exposure to a target pest, these compositions either compromise pest growth and/or cause the death of the pest. In a preferred embodiment, the compositions of the subject invention contain one or more amino acids and/or amino acid analogs. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the methods of the subject invention involve exposing a pest to a composition that comprises methionine or leucine, or an analog thereof.

Abstract: An ant repellent stand for attaching to the underside of a container, such as a dog dish which would hold dog food, which would otherwise attract ants. The stand is made up of at least three feet which are adhered to the underside of the container which holds the ant attracting substance. The feet are made with a downwardly facing cavity into which may be snapped a ring or substance, such as cotton, pressed into position containing an ant repelling substance. A foot extends through the ring downwardly onto the floor.

Abstract: A device for baiting insects which includes an anchor tube that is placed in the ground, a base plate that attaches to the anchor tube, a cover that attaches to the base plate, a bait cup placed in said anchor tube and that sits beneath the ground, and a termite media support rod that attaches to the bait cup and sits in the anchor tube, beneath the ground, the key to open the cover and access the bait, the anchor tube being molded into one integrated piece with a continuous spiral fin or threaded member that acts as a screw mechanism when inserting the station into the ground and the base plate, which sits at ground level, includes insect entry openings; a cover covers the base plate and bait cup, protecting the bait from the elements; and optionally a termite media support rod, which includes a disk molded on the bottom thereof used to hold material for termite monitoring.

Abstract: A pest control system includes pest control devices installed about an area or building. These devices each include a bait member and a wireless communication circuit. The wireless communication circuit may be in the form of a passive RF tag that transmits information indicative of bait status and an identifier unique to each pest control device. The wireless communication circuit can be configured in a first assembly for detecting the presence of one or more pests and a second assembly for delivering a pesticide once pests are detected. The assemblies are interchangeable within a pest control device housing. The wireless communication circuit is connected to a sensor having an electrically conductive element that can be comprised of a nonmetallic material, such as a carbon-based ink. One or more connection members electrically couple the wireless communication circuit and the sensor. These members are comprised of an electrically conductive, elastomeric compound, such as a carbon-filled silicone rubber.

Abstract: This invention relates to devices, kits, and methods for eliminating termite colonies. The kits, devices, and methods employ a termiticidal bait matrix containing a) a termiticide selected such that the termiticide causes death to about 50 to about 100% of termites within about 24 to about 84 days after the termites begin to ingest the termiticide or the bait matrix comprising the termiticide, b) a cellulose containing material, and c) water. The termiticidal bait matrix can be used in a bait station installed in the ground. The kits are suitable to be used by consumers in their homes.

Abstract: A device for killing flying insects is provided. The device includes a planar textile area arranged for suspension in a vertical plane, provided on one face with a pocket extending over a portion of the area, a closed edge of the pocket being disposed proximate to the center of the area, the pocket having at least one aperture to allow the insertion therethrough of a viscous liquid poisonous to flying insects and having an odor attractive to the insects. The liquid spreads over the major portion of the area by gravity and capillary action. Insects are attracted to the device dying consequent to ingestion of the liquid.

Abstract: An apparatus configured to provide standing water at convenient locations for the use of mosquitoes to lay eggs. After eggs are deposited in the development cycle of the egg, the larva, pupa, adult life stage are interrupted by denying the proper environment to sustain their development. Also disclosed is an apparatus to abate mosquito populations which provides a convenient and attractive reservoir of liquid situated to encourage use by mosquitoes for egg laying. At intervals the liquid in the reservoir is flushed or filtered eliminating mosquito biomass developing in the liquid. The bio-matter is substantially removed and aborts the development of the bio-matter into adult insects.

Abstract: A pesticide application system includes an anchor conduit and a dispensing tube for dispensing a pressurized fluid pesticide into an interior cavity of a hollow wall. The anchor conduit functions to convey a pressurized fluid pesticide from an outside surface of the hollow wall into the interior cavity of the hollow wall and anchors the pressurized fluid pesticide dispensing tube to the hollow wall. The anchor conduit has an opening at an outer end for connecting the system to a pressurized fluid pesticide dispenser. The dispensing tube is mounted on an inner end of the anchor conduit to dispense pressurized fluid pesticide into the wall cavity. The anchor conduit of the system may be placed directly in the wall, in a cover plate on the wall or in a utility cover plate on the wall or the anchor conduit may be an integral part of a cover plate on the wall.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for dispersing a volatile composition, which comprises dispersing the composition into an air stream and generating an ion wind, thereby causing the molecules of the composition to become electrically charged. The composition can be an insect repellent, an insecticide, an anti-microbial, an anti-allergenic or a room-fragrancing composition.

Abstract: Arthropod monitoring stations are provided, as well as methods for using them. The stations comprise a housing having a first end, a second end, and lateral wall extending between the first end and the second end. The first end, second end, and lateral wall substantially define an interior portion of the housing, and at least one of the first end, the second end, and the lateral wall includes at least one aperture suitable for ingress or egress by an arthropod with rest to said interior of said housing. Preferably, at least two members are disposed within the housing, each of the members having a first end, a second end, and a lateral wall extending between the first end and the second end. At least one of the members comprises a material capable of being consumed by arthropods, a material capable of being penetrated by arthropods, a material capable of being transported by arthropods, or a material capable of killing arthropods.

Abstract: A slug barrier employs a salt or another non-toxic irritant to gastropods. An elongated flexible edge barrier extends along a margin of the garden, and has a lower edge protruding into the soil and an upper edge extending above the soil. A channel member formed at the upper edge holds a length of wicking material. The wicking material can be a compressed flat synthetic sponge. A paste of salt and other possible minor constituents is charged into the wicking material. The salt is an irritant to garden slugs and snails. Cayenne pepper and garlic juice can be added as know deterrents to a insects and animals such as rabbits. A liquid organic detergent in the paste prevents animals such as deer from licking or biting the sponge. The detergent deters other animals from crossing the barrier.

Abstract: A slug barrier employs a salt or another material that is an irritant to gastropods. An elongated flexible metal or plastic edge barrier is adapted to extend along a margin of the garden, and has a lower edge that is protrudes a few inches into the soil and an upper edge that extends above the soil. A channel member is formed at the upper edge and holds a length of the wicking material. A paste of salt and other possible minor constituents is charged into the wicking material. The salt is an irritant to garden slugs and snails. Cayenne pepper and garlic juice can be added which are know to be deterrents to a number of insects and animals such as rabbits. A liquid organic detergent in the paste prevents animals such as deer from coming to the salt and licking or biting the sponge. The detergent also deters other animals from crossing the barrier. The wicking material can be a compressed flat synthetic sponge.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a container of pressurized fluid formulated to eliminate pests and a housing that is adapted to sit on a surface surrounding a pest dwelling with pest entrances, thereby forming a closed interior cavity and enclosing the pest entrances. The container has a spray release mechanism including a nozzle for releasing the pressurized fluid. The container sits on the surrounding surface within the closed interior cavity. The housing includes an activation mechanism and may include a first section housing including a first section opening edge associated with a first section flexible sealing member and a second section housing including a second section opening edge associated with a second section flexible sealing member. The first section opening edge and the second section opening edge define an upper surface opening in an upper surface of the housing.

Abstract: Ectoparasites, such as fleas, ticks, mites and lice, are removed from a human or animal host after applying a composition that causes the temperature of the treated area to become higher or lower than normal. In one embodiment, treatment is effected by applying a composition that releases heat when contacted with water. The elevated or decreased temperature immobilizes the parasites and facilitates their mechanical removal, such as by combing.

Abstract: An insect lure or bait container for attracting insects for treatment with a pesticide has an opening therein for the subterranean ingress and egress of insects and, preferably, contains a cellulose fiber lure of a coherent deformable compressible mass of randomly oriented, entangled, softwood fibers that is held together by entanglement of the fibers. Preferably, for treating termite colonies, the pesticide is a non-repellent termiticide, which is lethal to termites through matrix contact as well as through ingestion and/or transferal.

Abstract: The present invention a flying insect control device for placement over an entrance or exit way used by insects, said flying insect control device comprises a body having a first end defining a first opening and a second end defining a second opening, said openings connected with a passageway. It further includes a includes a flange connected proximate said second end of said body, said flange adapted for mounting said flying insect control device onto a flat surface over an insect entrance or exit way such that said passageway is in communication with said insect entrance or exist way; wherein said passageway dimensioned to compel flying insects to land at a landing area defined at said first end of said body and further compel insects to ambulate through said passageway laced with insecticide.

Abstract: A control agent delivery system useful for dispersing a pesticide, herbicide, fungicide or other biocide around a target or target area that is not directly accessible or that is hazardous to the user. The system includes a separable, two-part projectile containing a control agent disposed in a powder, liquid or gel dispersal medium, together with a gas-propelled, projectile launching device. A method of use of the subject system that causes the projectile to perform differently, depending upon the manner of launch, is also disclosed.

Abstract: An enclosed pest control device includes a covered tray carrying a tacky glue, bait, etc. The cover is vacuum formed of a transparent thermoplastic sheet and includes an open ended igloo vestibule which leads to the interior. During manufacture, the vestibule open end is formed by cutting the vestibule in a plane transverse to the plane of the tray, without a backing support. An array of covers is formed of a single sheet with continuous vestibules joining the ends of adjacent covers in a row such that a single cut through each vestibule will form two open ended vestibules without wasted material.

Abstract: An apparatus for destroying mosquitoes by luring them into the apparatus where they are killed and their remains are incinerated. In order to lure the mosquitoes to the apparatus a mixture is emitted that attracts mosquitoes. The mixture contains a chemical attractant for mosquitoes that is stored in a container and metered out automatically. The mixture also contains carbon dioxide that is produced by the incineration of the mosquitoes and the chemical attractant. The apparatus includes an electric heater that heats the apparatus so that its skin temperature approximates the temperature of human skin. Once the mosquitoes are within the apparatus, a high velocity stream of recirculated air captures and carries them to a fan where they are killed and shredded. The shredded remains are incinerated to produce the carbon dioxide and to avoid the disposal of captured mosquitoes. Only a small portion of the recirculated air is emitted to the atmosphere thereby minimizing the consumption of electrical energy.

Abstract: A termite lure for use with a hole passing through a slab includes: a tubular container housing a mass of entangled cellulose fibers or a grouping of fiberboard disks; and a rod having a length greater than that of the container or grouping of fiberboard disks extending through the container or grouping. The container or grouping is slidably retained on the rod so that the lure can be easily repositioned along the length of the rod. The lure may also include an expansible plug that seals the hole in the slab. Preferably, the termite lure is used with a non-repellant termiticide and the lure in placed in the hole with the cellulose fibers or the lowermost disk of the lure in contact with the soil beneath the hole.

Abstract: The present invention is a device for the elimination and control of termites and other insects, comprising a plurality of cellulose-containing strands and at least one pesticide-containing component interwoven with said strands to form a generally circular rope. In one embodiment, the pesticide-containing component may be comprised of a single extruded filament or a treated fiber. It may alternatively be comprised of a cellulosic tube containing the pesticide, or a cellulose paper upon which the pesticide is placed prior to being twisted into a strand. It can also be comprised of a group of fibers or filaments woven into a stand. Finally, the rope may incorporate an identifier strip and be covered by a mesh, which constricts upon removal, thus containing the spent material securely. In application, the pesticide containing rope can be entrenched in the ground, placed in areas frequented by termites, or wound around trees to control wood-eating insects.

Abstract: An insecticide dispenser for use in eliminating insect larvae in a container of water includes a pouch defining a closed chamber. There is a predetermined amount of a water releasable granule carried insecticide within the chamber. The pouch has a filter portion with openings of a size to permit the passage of water into the chamber and to permit the passage of water-released insecticide out of the chamber into a surrounding container of water.

Abstract: A core hole plug assembly for covering and sealing a hole in a paved surface, wall or other structure. The core hole plug assembly includes: a cover plate, a resilient expansible cylindrical plug, a compression plate, and a bolt and nut assembly for moving the compression plate relative to the cover plate to expand or reduce the outside diameter of the expansible plug. The compression plate is permanently secured to a lower end portion of the expansible plug and, preferably, the upper end of the expansible plug is permanently secured to the underside of the cover plate.

Abstract: A spill resistant insect bait station particularly adapted for use with liquid or gel insecticide consists of a generally cylindrical housing having an open end, a closed end, and a removable end cap assembly adapted for removable attachment with said open end. The housing interior functions as a reservoir for liquid or gel bait formulations, such as attractants and toxicants. Axial apertures formed in the housing ends provide insects with access to the interior of the housing through a series of openings defined in the walls of internal tube and shaft structures. A spiral baffle projects radially outward from the shaft for sealing engagement with the inner wall of the tubular structure to prevent spillage of liquid bait, while defining a passage for insects leading to the liquid bait. A series of offset openings in the shaft and tube walls provide access to the housing interior.

Abstract: A non-destructive flying insect detector is disclosed. The detector creates a sheet or curtain of light comprising a sensing zone and detects, by means of light extinction, individual flying insects that intersect the sensing zone. The sensing zone is created by a beam of light that enters the sensing zone area and is then bounced between opposing reflective surfaces. Preferably a laser is utilized to generate the beam of light. The beam of light leaves the sensing zone area and is incident on a light detection device (such as a photo cell) connected to an amplifier circuit. The light detection device monitors the light intensity and is arranged and configured to detect changes in the light intensity. The changes are electronically converted to a pest detection signal and/or to a flying insect count. Each flying pest detection signal may also be associated with other monitored data.

Abstract: The method and the system are applicable in household activities, healthcare, industry, agriculture, forestry, etc. for exterminating pests, weeds and pathogens. The system performing the method comprises a source of lethal impact which is a microwave generator (1) with a microwave guiding element (2) directed so as to face an antenna (3). The microwave generator (1) is placed by means of three supports (4) in the focus area of the antenna (3). The control input of the microwave generator (1) is connected to the output of a control unit (5) whose power supply input is connected to a power unit (6).

Abstract: A holder for isolating an article from a surface is comprised of a receiving member for retaining an article in a position removed from a surface. A crawling arthropod-deterring component is applied at least adjacent to lower periphery of the receiving member. A base situated below the receiving member supports and stabilizes the receiving member and distributes a load applied by the retained article.

Abstract: Below ground kits for controlling arthropods such as termites, ants, and roaches. A first embodiment fills a chamber with a food and places it adjacent to an arthropod population such as termites, so that live termites can then enter the entrance/exit of the tube to reach the food. Once termites are inside the tube, a non-edible foraging matrix, such as a disc of loose soil, sand, rocks, shale, and gravel that is treated with a slow acting and non-repellant toxicant, is placed between the food in the chamber and the termite entrance/exit. Termites are forced to pass through and disperse the slow-acting and non-repellent toxicant through their tunnels and living space in order to kill termites over time.

Abstract: There is disclosed an improved insect bait station and a method of treating insects with a toxicant. The improved insect bait station comprises a screw-shaped body and a top. The screw-shaped body at least partially defines a toxicant/bait-receiving chamber and defines at least one opening to the toxicant/bait-receiving chamber intermediate opposite ends of the body. The top defines an opening to the toxicant/bait-receiving chamber.

Abstract: The invention encompasses an electrical apparatus. Such apparatus comprises a first substrate having first circuitry supported thereby. The first circuitry defines at least a portion of a radio frequency identification device. At least one first electrical node is supported by the substrate and in electrical connection with the first circuitry. The apparatus further comprises an input device comprising a second substrate and second circuitry on the second substrate. The second circuitry is in electrical communication with at least one second electrical node. Neither of the first nor second electrical nodes is a lead, and the second electrical node is adhered to the first electrical node to electrically connect the input device with the radio frequency identification device. The invention also encompasses a termite-sensing apparatus. Additionally, the invention encompasses methods of forming electrical apparatuses, and methods for sensing termites.

Abstract: A method of making a mulch for eradicating termites without poisoning the soil includes spraying at least one of tree bark and wood chips with an aqueous concentration of a borate salt in a concentration sufficient to produce a mulch ineffective in protecting the mulch form infestation by termites and effective in killing termites in a colony remote from the mulch.

Abstract: An insect control station for baiting and/or trapping insects that includes a base, a cover, and an insert locked between the base and cover. The insert is preferably a glueboard or tray. The glueboard, to which insects stick, is used for trapping insects in an environment. The tray is used for holding a toxic bait or attractant that the insect takes back to its nest. The tray may also be used to hold glue for trapping purposes. To maximize the safety of the naive person, especially a child, who does not know what an insect control station is, the base and cover are locked to each other with two hand operated keyless locks that operate independently of the other. The keyless locks are recessed relative to the cover at a span having a width greater than a child's hand such that a child may not operate the locks at the same time with one hand. The operating portion of the lock is located on the base so that if two hands operate the two different locks, the cover will not move.

Abstract: Monitoring and controlling termite activity is accomplished by use of a soil additive in conjunction with a termite bait station. A material is added to the soil adjacent the bait station to retain moisture in the soil. Retention of moisture in the surrounding soil causes the bait material itself to remain moist for longer periods of time while enhancing the attraction and lure of termites to the bait station for longer periods of time. As such, the use of the material improves the efficacy and accuracy of the bait station.

Abstract: A termite lure for use with an hole passing through a slab includes: a tubular container with an open lower end; a mass of entangled cellulose fibers within the container; a rod having a length greater than that of the container extending through the container; and a retainer, for slidably retaining the container on the rod, that leaves an hole at the lower end of the container through which termites can gain access to the mass of cellulose fibers within the tubular container. The lure may also include an expansible plug that seals the hole in the slab to which the rod may be attached. Preferably, the termite lure is used with a non-repellant termiticide and the lure in placed in the hole with the cellulose fibers in contact with the soil beneath the hole.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for controlling fire ants. A method is disclosed for controlling colonies of fire ants in the environment. The method includes first providing a stimulating source that, when activated, will attract fire ants to contact the stimulating source and become agitated to a point that ants from a common colony will attack each other. Thereafter, the stimulating source is activated to cause the fire ants to cluster around the stimulating source, become agitated, and attack each other. The stimulated fire ants then are urged into a tightly confined space to exacerbate the attack reaction.