Green head flies are a significant problem at the bay shore from late June until the middle of August. Around July 15 harmless dragon flies appear in large numbers and they reportedly eat the green head flies.
Rutgers University conducted research on green head flies and tested various types of traps to reduce their numbers. The study concludes that it is possible to reduce the local population of flies and they published the design of the trap that seemed to work best.
We took that design
, toughened it up, used materials designed for long life at the bay shore and even added tie downs to make them hurricane proof. (We haven’t actually had a hurricane but the traps have sustained 70+ mph windstorms).Our traps are made of plywood and treated 2x4s, with galvanized steel corner brackets, “lifetime” deck screws, and two coats of Sherwin Williams Super Deck stain. We think they will last a decade even in extreme weather conditions. Screen life varies from one product to the next so we are unable to forecast the screen life.
The glass bowls that collect the dead flies are heavy enough to withstand most weather and inexpensive to replace if necessary.
Almost immediately after setup they begin catching flies.
We are asking for a $200 tax deductible donation to Baysave and will be happy to deliver a trap as a thank you. See https://www.baysave.org/donate for online payment.
