Are you tired of pesky deer flies ruining your outdoor fun? These persistent biters can make enjoying your backyard, hikes, or even a simple picnic a miserable experience. A simple solution involves understanding deer fly behavior: they are visually attracted to dark, moving objects. Using this knowledge, crafting your own deer fly catcher is easier than you think, even for beginners at DIY projects. In fact, this project provides an environmentally friendly alternative to using insecticides. The best part? Building an effective deer fly catcher doesn’t require advanced skills or a trip to the hardware store for specialty supplies; most items you likely already have around the house!
Image taken from the YouTube channel DIY Homefront , from the video titled Product Review Bug Ball Fly Traps (Get Rid of Deer Flys) .
Building Your Own Deer Fly Catcher: A Simple and Effective Solution
Let’s face it, deer flies are incredibly annoying. Their persistent biting can ruin any outdoor activity. Thankfully, you don’t have to resign yourself to their attacks! This guide will walk you through building your own highly effective deer fly catcher – a simple project that can make a big difference.
Why Build a DIY Deer Fly Catcher?
Before we jump into the "how," let’s talk about "why." Deer fly traps you can buy can be expensive. More importantly, a homemade deer fly catcher can be incredibly effective at a fraction of the cost. You get to customize it for your specific needs, too!
Cost-Effective Pest Control
- Store-bought traps can add up.
- Our DIY version utilizes readily available, inexpensive materials.
Environmentally Friendly Approach
- Reduces or eliminates the need for pesticides.
- Targets only deer flies, minimizing impact on beneficial insects.
Customizable for Your Needs
- Adjust the size and placement based on your property and the severity of the deer fly problem.
- Easily adapt the design to fit your aesthetic preferences.
Materials You’ll Need
To build your deer fly catcher, gather the following materials:
- A Dark-Colored Ball: Black is ideal, but dark blue or brown will also work. This is the main attractant, mimicking the body of a host animal. Think volleyball, soccer ball, or even a large ornament.
- Tacky Glue or Strong Adhesive: Essential for securing the trap surface to the ball.
- A Sticky Surface Covering: The key to trapping the deer flies. Options include:
- Tanglefoot: A commercially available, non-drying sticky coating.
- Heavy-Duty Clear Packing Tape: Wrapped around the ball, sticky side out. This is the most budget-friendly option.
- Flypaper: Cut into strips and attached to the ball.
- A Hanger or Mounting System: Options include:
- Wire
- String
- Hook
- PVC pipe (for a more permanent setup)
- (Optional) A Pole or Stand: To elevate the deer fly catcher to a suitable height.
Here’s a quick reference table:
| Material | Purpose | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Dark-Colored Ball | Attracts deer flies by mimicking a host animal. | Old basketball, large dark-colored plastic container |
| Tacky Glue/Adhesive | Secures the sticky surface to the ball. | Construction adhesive, strong craft glue |
| Sticky Surface | Traps the deer flies when they land. | Homemade sticky mixture (corn syrup + resin), double-sided tape |
| Hanger/Mounting | Allows you to suspend or mount the deer fly catcher. | Rope, zip ties, existing structure (tree branch) |
| Pole/Stand (Optional) | Elevates the deer fly catcher for better visibility and trapping efficiency. | Existing fence post, sturdy tree branch |
Step-by-Step Construction Guide
Now for the fun part! Let’s assemble your deer fly catcher.
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Prepare the Ball: Clean the ball thoroughly with soap and water and let it dry completely. This ensures proper adhesion of the sticky surface.
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Apply Adhesive (if necessary): If you are using Tanglefoot or a similar liquid adhesive, apply a thin, even layer to the entire surface of the ball. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If using tape, skip to step 3.
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Apply the Sticky Surface:
- For Tanglefoot: Allow the Tanglefoot to become tacky, following the product instructions. This may take several hours.
- For Packing Tape: Wrap the ball tightly with the packing tape, overlapping each layer slightly to ensure full coverage. Make sure the sticky side is facing outwards!
- For Flypaper: Cut the flypaper into strips and attach them to the ball using glue or strong adhesive. Overlap the strips slightly for maximum coverage.
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Attach the Hanger: Securely attach your chosen hanger (wire, string, hook) to the ball. Make sure it’s strong enough to support the weight of the ball, especially after it has accumulated trapped deer flies. Consider attaching it through pre-existing holes in the ball or using a strong adhesive to secure it to the surface.
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Placement is Key:
- Hang the deer fly catcher in an open area where deer flies are prevalent.
- Elevate it to a height of 3-6 feet. Deer flies typically fly low to the ground.
- Consider areas near wooded edges, water sources, or shaded areas where deer flies tend to congregate.
- Experiment with different locations to find the most effective spot.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Keeping your deer fly catcher working efficiently is crucial.
Regular Cleaning
- Periodically inspect the trap.
- Remove trapped deer flies as needed. A putty knife or scraper can be helpful.
- Reapply the sticky surface (Tanglefoot or replace the tape) when it becomes saturated with insects or loses its stickiness.
Location Adjustments
- If you’re not catching many deer flies, try moving the trap to a different location.
- Experiment with different heights to see what works best in your area.
Ball Color and Type
- While black is typically most effective, try experimenting with other dark colors to see what works best.
- Consider the size of the ball – a larger ball may attract more deer flies.
With a little effort, you can create a highly effective deer fly catcher and reclaim your outdoor space!
DIY Deer Fly Catcher FAQs: End Deer Fly Bites Now!
Here are some frequently asked questions about building your own deer fly catcher. Hopefully, these answers will help you understand the process and effectiveness.
What materials do I need to build this deer fly catcher?
You’ll need a dark-colored (preferably black) ball, a sticky coating like Tanglefoot or similar insect glue, and a way to suspend the ball. You might use string, a pole, or even attach it to a hat.
How effective is a DIY deer fly catcher, really?
It’s quite effective! Deer flies are attracted to dark, moving objects, mistaking them for potential prey (or you!). The sticky coating traps them, reducing the number of deer flies buzzing around. The deer fly catcher mimics movement, fooling the flies.
Where is the best place to position my deer fly catcher?
Position it in areas where you commonly encounter deer flies, such as near wooded areas, paths, or gardens. Placing it a few feet above ground level tends to work best. Experiment with different locations to maximize your deer fly catcher’s effectiveness.
How often do I need to reapply the sticky coating on the deer fly catcher?
The frequency depends on weather conditions and the number of deer flies caught. Check it regularly (every few days to a week) and reapply the sticky coating when it becomes covered in insects or loses its stickiness.
So, go ahead and give this DIY deer fly catcher a try! Hopefully, you’ll be enjoying bite-free days in no time! Let me know in the comments how it works out for you.
