How to Build a Mosquito Trap

During the hot summer months, mosquitoes can be difficult to escape. Many people simply consider the mosquito population a nuisance, but in actuality mosquitoes pose a public health threat. Mosquitoes are the carriers of several life threatening illnesses, including West Nile virus and dengue fever. Building a mosquito trap is one way a homeowner can control the mosquito population in his own backyard.

2-liter soda bottle

Utility knife

4 cups water

Small saucepan

2 cups brown sugar

1/3 oz. yeast

Tape

Black construction paper

Double-sided tape

Clean out a 2-liter soda bottle with water.

Cut off the top one-third of the bottle with a utility knife. Set it aside.

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add 2 cups of brown sugar and reduce to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the brown sugar is completely dissolved. Set aside the mixture to cool completely.

Pour the cooled sugar mixture and 1/3 oz. of yeast into the bottom of the soda bottle.

Turn the top portion of the bottle upside down, so the spout is facing down, and place it into the bottom of the soda bottle.

Secure the two sections together with tape.

Secure black construction paper to the outside of the soda bottle with double-sided tape. The paper should cover the entire bottle, aside from the opening.

Place the bottle into a dark corner on the inside or outside of the home or wherever there is a large mosquito infestation.

Allow the mixture to remain for two to three weeks before emptying and replacing, if desired.

Place multiple mosquito traps both inside and outside of the home to eradicate larger numbers of mosquitoes.