Catch Mosquitoes With Dry Ice

Dry ice increases the "catch" of mosquito traps by attracting four to five times as many mosquitoes as just the light source used as the attractant in most traps.  Scientists have found that carbon dioxide exhaled from mammals by breathing is what attracts mosquitoes hunting something to bite. 

According to the New Jersey Mosquito Control Association, a five-pound block of dry ice will simulate the carbon dioxide output of a large mammal in one dusk-to-dawn trapping period. 

How can you use dry ice to catch mosquitoes? The trap should be hung six to eight feet from the ground with the dry ice in a heavy cloth bag at about the same level as the trap.  Some research has recommended just using the dry ice without a light, as trap bait, which was the practice among U.S. troops in the Vietnam War.  With the increased concern about West Nile Virus, mosquito control around our homes and workplaces is much more important.

Call Continental Carbonic toll-free at 800-DRY-ICE2. Visit our News Archive to find out about more ways to use dry ice. Use your ZIP code to find your closest Continental Carbonic location.