Basically, cut an empty water bottle in half, turn the nozzle part upside down and insert it into the bottom half. Throw in some yummy goodies like old moldy beef and let the fun begin! Flies check in, but they don’t check out.
Not that I’m terribly bothered with flies all the time, but this looks like a fun little project when I start spending more time outside. Grilling out has a way of attracting flies and so does just relaxing on the deck. However, when I’m out on the boat, horseflies will descend like vultures. So hanging one of these off the starboard bow might be just what the doctor ordered.
Make an inexpensive and efficient fly trap by recycling plastic drink bottles. This is great for domestic flys, blow flys and fruit flys.
1.5 to 2 litre (3-4 pint) plastic bottles are ideal. It can vary up or down in size. If any black bases that are often on the larger plastic bottles, remove these.
You will require either scissors, a hacksaw or sharp knife and some electric tape or plastic glue.
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Does this work well for wasps, too, or are they smart enough to get back out of a trap like this?
Seems to me I remember reading you need to use beer for wasps and bees. The traps work on a similar method, they get in, but can’t figure their way out.
Yeah, now that you mention it, I remember reading about using this same type of trap against wasps, but using beer or soda to lure them in. Thanks for the reminder! I may have to set one of these up on my patio in a few weeks, as the bees and wasps seem to love to hang around when I’m out on the balcony.
What can I put inside the bottle as fly bait? As in what can I use instead of buying bait. Can I make it?
I used a combo of water, old jello from the fridge, cheese and dish soap in one bottle.
Water/dish soap, a twinkie and cheese in another.
I’ve heard raw meat like hamburger works really well but is prob best for the out-of-doors application…~smelly~
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