Device for the selective trapping of a target insect
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/EP2026/056741
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-03-19
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-24
Smart Images

Figure EP2026056741_24092026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Device for the selective trapping of a target insect
[0002] Technical Field
[0003] The present invention is directed to a device designed to trap target insects, specifically Asian hornets. The device is designed to be used with a recipient container and forms a one-way pathway for the insects. The device includes an entry section with an entrance aperture and an exit section with an exit aperture. The exit aperture is designed to expand under the force of the insect, allowing it to enter the recipient container but preventing it from exiting. The device also includes a limiting mechanism to restrict the size of insects that can enter the recipient container. The device can be used in conjunction with an insect bait and is particularly useful for trapping and controlling the population of Asian hornets.
[0004] Background of the invention
[0005] Insect traps are commonly used to control and monitor insect populations. These traps often use attractants or baits, such as food or pheromones, to lure insects into the trap. Once inside, the insects are typically unable to escape and eventually die. The design and construction of these traps can vary widely depending on the target insect species. For instance, some traps are designed to catch flying insects, while others are designed to catch crawling insects. The size and shape of the entry and exit points, as well as the internal structure of the trap, can also vary depending on the target insect.
[0006] One particular type of insect that has been the focus of trapping efforts is the Asian hornet. This invasive species poses a significant threat to honeybees and other pollinators, and as such, effective traps for Asian hornets are of great interest. These traps often need to be specifically designed to allow the Asian hornets to enter, while preventing smaller beneficial insects and protected European hornets from being trapped.
[0007] Overall, the design and construction of insect traps is a complex process that requires a detailed understanding of the target insect's behavior and physical characteristics. This knowledge can then be used to create a trap that is effective at capturing the target insect, while minimizing the capture of non-target species.The current state of the art in insect trapping devices often does not allow for the selective trapping of a specific target insect. This lack of selectivity can lead to the trapping and potential harm to non-target insects, including those that are protected species. For instance, in the context of combating the invasive Asian hornet (Vespa velutina), it is crucial to avoid trapping the European hornet (Vespa crabro), which is a protected species, and the honeybee, which is predated and endangered by the invasive Asian hornet.
[0008] Thus, the objective of the present invention is to propose a device for trapping insects that completely or at least largely resolves the above-mentioned disadvantages of known devices.
[0009] Summary of the invention
[0010] The invention aims to provide a device for use with a recipient container to form a trap for a target insect, particularly an Asian hornet, that allows for the selective trapping of the target insect based on its size, while preventing larger non-target insects from entering the trap. According to the present invention, these objects are achieved in particular through the elements of the independent claims.
[0011] More specifically, the present invention relates to a device for use with a recipient container to form a trap for a target insect, particularly an Asian hornet. The Asian hornet, or Vespa velutina, is a species of hornet indigenous to Southeast Asia, which has become an invasive species in several European countries and is a significant predator of bees. The device is designed to advantageously trap these hornets, preventing them from escaping once they have entered the trap.
[0012] In particular, the objects of the present invention are, in a first aspect, achieved by a device for use with a recipient container to form a trap for a target insect, in particular an Asian hornet (Vespa velutina), having a target width, the device comprising:
[0013] o an entry section defining an entrance aperture having an entry diameter greater than the target width;
[0014] o an exit section operably connected to the entry section and defining an exit aperture, wherein:
[0015] in a relaxed state, the exit aperture has a resting diameter smaller than the target width, preventing the target insect to egress; andin an operational state, upon application of outward radial force by the target insect exiting the device into the recipient, the exit aperture expands to an operational diameter substantially equal to the target width;
[0016] wherein the entry section is elastically deformable under the action of the target insect exiting the device through the exit section into the recipient allowing the exit aperture to expand from the resting diameter to the operational diameter, wherein the device further comprises limiting means to limit the maximum width of the insects that can enter the recipient through the device to the target width, and wherein the device, when assembled with the recipient container, forms a one-way pathway for target insects entering through the entry section and exiting into the recipient container via the exit section.
[0017] The present invention addresses the above-mentioned issues by providing a device that can be used with a recipient container to form a trap specifically for a target insect of a certain width, advantageously 5-7 mm corresponding to the average width of an Asian hornet. The device comprises an entry section and an exit section. The entry section has an entrance aperture with a diameter greater than the target width, allowing the target insect to enter. The exit section, in its relaxed state, has a diameter smaller than the target width, preventing the target insect from exiting. However, when the target insect applies an outward radial force while exiting into the recipient, the exit aperture expands to a diameter substantially equal to the target width. A key feature of this invention is the inclusion of limiting means to restrict the maximum width of insects that can enter the recipient through the device to the target width. This ensures that only the target insect, such as the Asian hornet, can enter the trap, while larger insects, like the European hornet, are prevented from entering. The device is designed to be elastically deformable, allowing the exit aperture to expand from its resting diameter to its operational diameter under the action of the target insect. This feature, combined with the limiting means, ensures that the device provides a one-way pathway for the target insect, effectively trapping it within the recipient container. The device of the present invention thus provides an effective means of trapping target insects, such as the Asian hornet, while preventing non-target insects from entering the recipient container. This can be particularly useful in areas where the Asian hornet is an invasive species and poses a threat to local bee populations.
[0018] In a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device comprises a plurality of strips that extend longitudinally from the entry section to the exit section. These strips can be arranged in a radial pattern around the central axis of the device, forming a sort of funnel or cone shape. The strips can be flexible and resilient, allowing them to bend or flex outward when the target insect applies an outward radial force as it attempts to exit thedevice into the recipient. This allows the exit aperture that is operably connected to the entry section to expand from the resting diameter to the operational diameter.
[0019] The strips can be made from a variety of materials, including but not limited to plastic, metal, or a composite material. The material chosen for the strips can depend on a variety of factors, including the desired flexibility and resilience of the strips, the expected environmental conditions in which the device will be used, and the cost of the material.
[0020] The strips can be evenly spaced around the circumference of the device, or they can be arranged in a different pattern depending on the specific design of the device. The number of strips can also vary depending on the design of the device.
[0021] The use of strips in this manner can provide several advantages. For example, the strips can allow the exit aperture to expand and contract in response to the movements of the target insect, while still maintaining a barrier that prevents the insect from escaping the device. The strips can also provide structural support for the device, helping to maintain its shape and integrity. Furthermore, the strips can be relatively easy and inexpensive to manufacture and assemble, which can reduce the overall cost of the device. Finally, the spacing between the strips can be adjusted to allow smaller, non-target insects to escape.
[0022] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device comprises at least one escape aperture positioned advantageously in the entry section. This escape aperture has a diameter that is smaller than the width of the target insect. The purpose of this escape aperture is to allow smaller, non-target insects to escape from the device after they have entered. The escape aperture can be positioned anywhere within the entry section, but it is typically positioned in a location that is easily accessible to the non-target insects and where the insect can see light helping the non-target insects to find the escape aperture. The escape aperture can be of any shape, but it is typically circular or oval to allow for easy passage of the non-target insects. The diameter of the escape aperture is smaller than the width of the target insect to prevent the target insect from escaping through the escape aperture. However, the diameter of the escape aperture is large enough to allow smaller, non-target insects to pass through. This allows the device to selectively trap the target insect while allowing non-target insects to escape, thereby reducing the impact on non-target insect populations.
[0023] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the limiting means comprises a limiting aperture of diameter substantially equal to the target width. This limiting aperture is provided in the entry section of the device. The purpose of the limiting aperture isto restrict the size of the insects that can enter the device and subsequently the recipient container. The limiting aperture is designed to have a diameter that is substantially equal to the width of the target insect. This means that insects that are larger than the target insect will not be able to pass through the limiting aperture and enter the device. However, insects that are the same size as or smaller than the target insect will be able to pass through the limiting aperture and enter the device. The limiting aperture can be of any shape, but it is typically circular or oval to allow for easy passage of the insects. The limiting aperture can be positioned anywhere within the entry section, but it is typically positioned in a location that is easily accessible to the insects. The inclusion of a limiting aperture in the device provides several advantages. For example, it improves the selectivity of the device, allowing it to trap only insects of a certain size. This can reduce the impact on non-target insect populations, as for example European hornets, which can be beneficial for the environment.
[0024] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the limiting aperture is integrated within a cover element that removably attaches to the entry section, thereby covering the entrance aperture. The cover element can be designed to easily attach and detach from the entry section, allowing for easy installation and removal. This can be particularly useful for cleaning the device or replacing the cover element. The cover element can be made from a variety of materials, including but not limited to plastic, metal, or a composite material. The material chosen for the cover element can depend on a variety of factors, including the expected environmental conditions in which the device will be used, the desired durability of the cover element, and the cost of the material. The cover element can be of any shape and size that allows it to effectively cover the entrance aperture. The cover element or the limiting aperture can for instance have a frusto-conical shape to decrease the chances of escape of the insects entering. In this case, the cover element can also comprise escape apertures to allow smaller non-target insects to escape the trap. The limiting aperture integrated within the cover element serves the same purpose as described earlier, restricting the size of the insects that can enter the device and subsequently the recipient container. The inclusion of a removable cover element with an integrated limiting aperture in the device provides several advantages. For example, it can make the device easier to clean and maintain, as the cover element can be easily removed and replaced. Furthermore, the cover element can provide additional protection for the device, helping to prevent damage to the device and prolong its lifespan.
[0025] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the limiting means is configured to limit the maximum diameter of the exit aperture to a diameter substantially equal to the target width. This limiting means can be a physical barrier or a structural feature of the device that prevents the exit aperture from expanding beyond a certain size. Thelimiting means can be designed to interact with the exit section of the device or any other part of the device in such a way that it restricts the maximum diameter of the exit aperture. This can be achieved through a variety of mechanisms, such as a stopper or a constriction in the exit section that physically prevents the exit aperture from expanding beyond the target width. The purpose of the limiting means is to ensure that only insects of a certain size, namely the target insect, can exit the device into the recipient container. This helps to improve the selectivity of the device, allowing it to trap only the target insect while preventing larger, non-target insects from entering the recipient container.
[0026] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device comprises an intermediate section situated between the entry section and the exit section, and the limiting means is exchangeably mounted to this intermediate section. This configuration allows for the limiting means to be easily replaced or exchanged, providing flexibility in the operation of the device. The intermediate section serves as a transition zone between the entry and exit sections, guiding the target insect from the entrance aperture to the exit aperture. The limiting means, when mounted to the intermediate section, is strategically positioned to effectively control the maximum diameter of the exit aperture. In particular, the limitation of the insect size able to exit the device into the recipient is positioned as closely as possible to the bait, thus improving the effectiveness of the device. The exchangeable mounting of the limiting means to the intermediate section can be achieved through various mechanisms, such as a threaded connection, a snap-fit connection, or a bayonet connection. This allows for easy installation and removal of the limiting means, facilitating maintenance and replacement operations. The ability to exchange the limiting means provides the advantage of adaptability. Different limiting means with different characteristics can be used depending on the specific requirements of the trapping operation. For example, limiting means with different maximum diameters can be used to target insects of different sizes. This feature enhances the versatility of the device, making it suitable for a wide range of insect trapping applications. In the context of trapping Asian hornet, this adaptability allows for the selective trapping of queens, males or workers hornets.
[0027] In yet another preferred embodiment, wherein the limiting means comprises a plate having a plate aperture, wherein the diameter of the plate aperture is selected to limit the maximum diameter of the exit aperture to a diameter substantially equal to the target width. The plate can be a flat or curved structure made from a variety of materials, including but not limited to plastic, metal, or a composite material. The plate aperture is a hole or opening in the plate that allows the target insect to pass through. The diameter of the plate aperture is carefully selected such that the maximum diameter of the exit aperture issubstantially equal to the target width, ensuring that only insects of a certain size can pass through the exit aperture.
[0028] The plate of the device may, in a further preferred embodiment, comprise several apertures of different diameters. This feature allows the device to be adaptable to target insects of various sizes. Each aperture is designed to allow passage of a specific size of insect. The apertures can be arranged in any pattern on the plate, depending on the specific design of the device. They can be evenly spaced, arranged in a radial pattern, or positioned in a random arrangement. The number of apertures can also vary depending on the design of the device. The inclusion of several apertures of different diameters in the plate provides several advantages. For example, it allows the device to be adaptable to target insects of various sizes, enhancing its versatility. This can be particularly useful in areas where there are multiple species of target insects of different sizes.
[0029] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the plate aperture of the device is an oblong aperture that extends from a first region to a second region. The diameter of this oblong aperture gradually increases from the first region to the second region. This design allows the device to accommodate insects of varying sizes. The oblong shape of the aperture provides a gradual transition from the smaller diameter at the first region to the larger diameter at the second region.
[0030] In yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the entry section, the exit section and the intermediate section are formed in one piece. This configuration enhances efficiency by minimizing the need for multiple parts that could cause misalignment or wear, thus potentially improving performance and reducing operational complexity. The single-piece design likely leads to a more compact structure, simplifies manufacturing processes, and enhances durability by eliminating points where components might fail or become misaligned, thereby increasing the system's overall reliability and functionality. The device is advantageously manufactured by injection molding, even more advantageously by injection molding with a so-called straight-pull mold. This allows the device to be manufactured at low cost.
[0031] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the entry section comprises a frusto-conical shape tapering towards the exit section. This design provides a gradually narrowing pathway for the target insect as it moves from the entry section towards the exit section. The frusto-conical shape of the entry section can help guide the target insect towards the exit section. As the insect moves further into the device, the narrowing pathway can encourage the insect to move in the direction of the exit section. This can helpto increase the efficiency of the device by guiding the insect towards the recipient container. Furthermore, the frusto-conical shape can be relatively easy and inexpensive to manufacture, which can reduce the overall cost of the device.
[0032] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the exit section comprises a frusto-conical shape tapering towards the exit aperture. This design provides a gradually narrowing pathway for the target insect as it moves from the wider part of the exit section towards the exit aperture. The frusto-conical shape of the exit section can help guide the target insect towards the exit aperture. The frusto-conical shape helps to prevent the target insect from escaping the device once it has entered the recipient container.
[0033] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device comprises a lip or flange extending radially outward from the entry section, said lip or flange being configured to removably mount the device on the rim or edge of an aperture in the recipient container. The lip or flange provides a surface that can be used to secure the device to the recipient container. This can be achieved through a variety of mechanisms, such as a snap-fit connection, a threaded connection, or a bayonet connection. The lip or flange can be designed to easily attach and detach from the recipient container, allowing for easy installation and removal of the device. The inclusion of a lip or flange in the device provides several advantages. For example, it can make the device easier to install and remove from the recipient container, facilitating maintenance and replacement operations. Furthermore, the lip or flange can provide additional stability for the device, helping to maintain its position on the recipient container and prevent it from falling off or being knocked over.
[0034] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device comprises a lid removably attached to the entrance aperture, wherein the lid is advantageously configured to float on an aqueous solution containing an insect bait. The lid can be made from a variety of materials, including but not limited to plastic, metal, or a composite material. The material chosen for the lid can depend on a variety of factors, including the expected environmental conditions in which the device will be used, the desired buoyancy of the lid, and the cost of the material. The lid can be of any shape and size that allows it to effectively cover the entrance aperture. The lid can be designed to easily attach and detach from the entrance aperture, allowing for easy installation and removal. The inclusion of a floating lid effectively prevents insects from drowning into the aqueous bait solution. This is particularly crucial in regions where the preservation of protected species is paramount.In a second aspect, the present invention also encompasses a system for trapping a target insect. This system comprises a recipient for containing an insect bait and at least one device as previously described.
[0035] The recipient can be any suitable container for holding the insect bait and the trapped insects. It can be made from a variety of materials, including but not limited to plastic, metal, or glass. The recipient can be of any shape and size that allows it to effectively hold the insect bait and the trapped insects. The recipient can also include a lid or cover to prevent the trapped insects from escaping. The insect bait can be any substance that is known to attract the target insect. The specific type of bait used can depend on the species of target insect. The bait is placed inside the recipient, and the target insect is attracted to the bait and enters the device to reach the bait. Once inside the device, the target insect is trapped and cannot escape.
[0036] The system can include one or more devices as previously described. The number of devices used can depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the area to be covered, the density of the target insect population, and the desired efficiency of the trapping operation.
[0037] The system provides an effective means of trapping target insects, while minimizing the impact on non-target insect populations. The system can be used in a variety of settings, including residential areas, agricultural fields, and natural habitats. The system can be particularly useful in areas where the target insect is an invasive species and poses a threat to local ecosystems.
[0038] Brief description of the drawings
[0039] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a device for trapping a target insect according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention as the insect approaches the device;
[0040] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a device for trapping a target insect according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention when the insect is entering the exit section;
[0041] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a device for trapping a target insect according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention when the insect is exiting the exit section; andFIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a device for trapping a target insect according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention when the insect has passed the exit aperture.
[0042] Detailed description of a preferred embodiment
[0043] FIG. 1 shows a device 1 designed for use with a recipient container 2 to form a trap for a target insect 3, such as an Asian hornet according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Please note that in FIG. 1- 4 the insect is schematically represented by an oval. Device 1 comprises an entry section 4 with an entry aperture 4a, an exit section 5, an intermediate section 6, limiting plate 7, limiting plate aperture 7a, a lip 8, strips 9, and escape apertures 10. The target insect 3 is characterized by a target width 3a, and the device 1 is configured to allow the target insect 3 to enter through the entry section 4 and exit into the recipient container 2 via the exit section 5. As can be understood from FIG.1 , the exit section 5 is pointing towards the inside of recipient container 2 which containing a bait (not shown here).
[0044] The entry section 4 plays an important role in the device 1, featuring an entry aperture 4a with an entry diameter D4 that is greater than the target width 3a of the target insect 3. This design ensures that the target insect 3 can enter the device 1 without difficulty. The entry section 4 is elastically deformable, allowing the section to accommodate the movement of the target insect 3 as the insect progresses through the device 1.
[0045] The exit section 5 is operably connected to the entry section 4 and is designed to define an exit aperture 5a. In a relaxed state, the exit aperture has a resting diameter D5a smaller than the target width 3a, preventing the target insect 3 from egressing. However, when the target insect 3 applies an outward radial force, the exit aperture expands to an operational diameter D5b substantially equal to the target width 3a, allowing the insect to exit into the recipient container 2.
[0046] The intermediate section 6 is positioned between the entry section 4 and the exit section 5. This section serves as a transitional area that supports the structural integrity of the device 1 and facilitates the smooth passage of the target insect 3 from the entry section 4 to the exit section 5.
[0047] As can been seen in FIG. 1-4, the limiting means 7, here in the form of a plate with a limiting plate aperture 7a, is integrated into the device 1 to restrict the maximum width of insects that can enter the recipient container 2 through the device 1 to the target width 3a.This ensures that only the intended target insect 3 can pass through, enhancing the trap's effectiveness. In the situations of FIG. 1-2 and 4, the diameter of the intermediate section 6 is smaller than the diameter of the limiting aperture 7a and the limiting plate 7 is resting on fin-shaped elements of the exit section allowing for an easy exchange of the limiting plate, for instance with a plate with a different limiting aperture diameter. This situation represents the situation when insect 3 is not applying any outward force on the exit section 5. In FIG. 2, the insect enters the exit section and the diameter of the limiting aperture is selected so that in this situation the intermediate section is not yet in contact with the limiting aperture. 7a. On the contrary, in FIG. 3, the insect exerts sufficient outward forces on the exit section so that the intermediate section 6 comes into contact with the limiting aperture 7a and effectively limits the maximum diameter of the exit aperture 5a, preventing large non-target insect to exit the device and enter the recipient. In fact, it is important to understand that it is the elastic deformability of the entry section 4, in particular thanks to the presence of the strips 9, that allows the exit aperture to expand. While the entry section deforms elastically, the exit section maintains its shape even under significant radial pressure and can be considered as rigid. Once the insect has entered the recipient, as illustrated in FIG. 4 the exit aperture 5a collapses again preventing the insect to exit the container through the device 1.
[0048] As illustrated in FIG. 1-4, device 1 comprises a lip 8 extends radially outward from the entry section 4 and is configured to allow the device 1 to be removably mounted on the rim or edge of an aperture in the recipient container 2. This feature provides stability and ease of installation for the device 1.
[0049] Escape apertures 10 are advantageously positioned in the entry section 4 and has a diameter smaller than the target width 3a. This feature allows smaller non-target insects to escape, reducing the likelihood of unintended captures and maintaining the trap's selectivity for the target insect 3.
Claims
Claims1. A device (1) for use with a recipient container (2) to form a trap for a target insect (3), in particular an Asian hornet (Vespa velutina), having a target width (3a), the device comprising:o an entry section (4) defining an entrance aperture (4a) having an entry diameter (D4) greater than the target width (3a);o an exit section (5) operably connected to the entry section (4) and defining an exit aperture (5a), wherein:■ in a relaxed state, the exit aperture (5a) has a resting diameter (D5a) smaller than the target width (3a), preventing the target insect to egress; and■ in an operational state, upon application of outward radial force by the target insect (3) exiting the device (1) into the recipient, the exit aperture (5a) expands to an operational diameter (D5b) substantially equal to the target width (3a);characterized in thatthe entry section (4) is elastically deformable under the action of the target insect (3) exiting the device through the exit section (5) into the recipient (2) allowing the exit aperture (5a) to expand from the resting diameter (D5a) to the operational diameter (D5b),wherein the device (1) further comprises limiting means (7) to limit the maximum width of the insects that can enter the recipient through the device (1) to the target width (3a), andwherein the device (1), when assembled with the recipient container (2), forms a oneway pathway for target insects entering through the entry section (4) and exiting into the recipient container (2) via the exit section (5).
2. The device (1) according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of strips (9) extending longitudinally from the entry section (4) to the exit section (5).
3. The device (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, comprising, advantageously positioned in the entry section (4), at least one escape aperture (10) with a diameter smaller than the target width (3a).
4. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the limiting means (7) comprises a limiting aperture of diameter substantially equal to the target width (3a), wherein this aperture is provided in the entry section (4).
5. The device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the limiting aperture is integrated within a cover element that removably attaches to the entry section (4), thereby covering the entrance aperture (4a).
6. The device (1) according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the limiting means is configured to limit the maximum diameter of the exit aperture (5a) to a diameter substantially equal to the target width (3a).
7. The device (1) according to claim 6, wherein the device comprises an intermediate section (6) between the entry section (4) and the exit section (5), and wherein the limiting means (7) is exchangeably mounted to the intermediate section (6).
8. The device (1) according to claim 7, wherein the limiting means (7) comprises a plate having a plate aperture, wherein the diameter of the plate aperture is selected to limit the maximum diameter of the exit aperture (5a) to a diameter substantially equal to the target width.
9. The device (1) according to claim 8, wherein the plate comprises several apertures of different diameters.
10. The device (1) according to claim 8, wherein the plate aperture is an oblong aperture extending from a first region to a second region, wherein the diameter of the aperture gradually increases from the first region to the second region.
11. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the entry section (4), the exit section (5) and the intermediate section (6) are formed in one piece.
12. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the entry section (4) comprises a frusto-conical shape tapering towards the exit section (5).
13. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the exit section (5) comprises a frusto-conical shape tapering towards the exit aperture (5a).
14. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a lip or flange (8) extending radially outward from the entry section (4), said lip or flangebeing configured to removably mount the device on the rim or edge of an aperture in the recipient container (2).
15. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a lid removably attached to the entrance aperture, wherein the lid is advantageously configured to float on an aqueous solution containing an insect bait.
16. A system to trap a target insect comprising a recipient for containing an insect bait and at least one device according to any one the claims 1 to 15.