Mass trapping of yellowjackets in an urban setting: an operational trial

Abstract

An operational trial for mass-trapping of yellowjackets (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) was run at the Pacific National Exhibition, Vancouver, British Columbia from 13 August to 10 September 2009, spanning the dates at which the fair was open from 22 August to 7 September. Seventy bag traps with a heptyl butyrate-based, 10-component emulsifiable concentrate lure were deployed, primarily in high-use areas of the fairgrounds. Over the four-week period 44,489 yellowjackets were captured, 98.6% of them western yellowjackets, Vespula pensylvanica (Saussure). Only six honey bees, Apis mellifera L., were caught. Comments by fair workers and operators of food concessions strongly indicated that the trapping program reduced yellowjacket problems to insignificant levels. If implemented on a regular basis, such programs would increase enjoyment of outdoor venues, would reduce the likelihood of stings and the possibility of anaphylactic shock, and would provide evidence that due diligence was being practiced in protecting the health and well-being of workers and the public.