Wednesday, 3rd July 2024
Installation of processionary trap cages
The Calvià Town Hall distributes traps to capture pine processionary butterflies, since it is recommended to place them between the end of June and mid-July to prevent future activity.
Processionary butterfly traps are designed to capture the males and prevent fertilisation of the females, which prevents the subsequent laying of eggs. For maximum effectiveness in capturing pine processionary butterflies, it is essential to place processionary traps between late June and mid/late July, preferably before the butterflies emerge. These traps can now be collected at the Environment Service of Calvià Town Hall (c/ Major, 2, Es Capdellà).
The traps must be hung from a pine branch at a height of between 1.50 and 1.80 meters, in order to prevent their manipulation by children or outsiders. To do this, a wire is used that is inserted through the four holes in the upper part of the trap box. To place the pheromone capsule, the cap must first be removed from the housing, revealing a small slot through which a stationery clip passes to hook the pheromone capsule into the cap. Through the handle of the cap, the capsule is securely hooked. In case of rain, it is recommended to make some small holes in the bottom of the plastic bag to allow drainage and prevent water from being retained.
These traps have an approximate radius of action of one hectare (one trap per 10,000 square meters), which means that it is not necessary to install several traps in a small space. Additionally, the trap box can be recycled for several seasons. The Town Hall subsidises one trap per property, and if a box was delivered the previous year, this year only the consumable material will be provided.
For more information, do not hesitate to contact the Medi Ambient Service at 971 13 05 77 or by email at medioambiente@calvia.com
