To effectively attract mosquitoes into a house, you can use a bait that mimics their natural attraction to carbon dioxide.
Using Activated Yeast and Sugar
One proven method to attract mosquitoes indoors involves a simple and effective bait made from activated yeast and sugar. The process leverages the natural attraction mosquitoes have for the carbon dioxide that humans exhale. Here's how it works:
- The Science: When yeast is mixed with sugar and water, it undergoes fermentation, producing carbon dioxide (CO2) as a byproduct. This CO2 mimics the breath of humans and animals, which is a primary attractant for mosquitoes.
Steps to Create the Bait:
-
Mix Ingredients: Combine warm water, sugar, and activated yeast in a container. The ratio does not need to be exact but a good starting point would be:
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon of activated yeast
-
Set Up: Place the container in an area where mosquitoes are present or where you wish to attract them.
-
Optional Soap: For a more effective trap, add a small amount of dish soap. The soap reduces the surface tension of the water, trapping and preventing the mosquitoes from escaping.
How It Attracts Mosquitoes
- Mosquitoes are drawn to the CO2 released by the fermenting yeast mixture. This fools them into thinking that a potential source of blood meal (like a human) is nearby.
Additional Tips
- Location: Place your mosquito bait strategically in areas with known mosquito activity such as near windows, doors, and areas with poor ventilation.
- Maintenance: Replace the mixture every few days to maintain its efficacy, as the yeast activity will reduce over time.
By using this simple bait, you can effectively attract mosquitoes into a specific area within your house, making it easier to then deal with the infestation.
