How to make your own home-made mosquito trap

Bite back against irritating insects this summer season in Spain

There are so many sounds that herald the arrival of summer in Spain, from the electric hum of cicadas to the delighted shrieks of kids splashing about in the pool. But there are few noises that elicit such dread as the incessant drone of mosquitoes.

Far from putting us in mind of relaxing balmy evenings, these irritating bugs conjure images of sleepless nights and itchy limbs, and possibly even a trip to the pharmacy or doctor for the really unlucky ones.

However, help is at hand and like most irritating insects that blight the Spanish summer, the remedy could already be sitting in your cupboards. That’s right, it’s entirely possible to fashion a cheap, but more importantly, effective, mosquito trap from the comfort of your own home.

Also of interest: 5 garden plants that will keep mosquitos at bay

This advice comes directly from Murcia Salud and is sure to keep those pesky mozzies at bay – and away from your legs. Here’s what you need to do:

Grab an empty 2-litre plastic water bottle and cut it in half. The bottom half should be slightly larger than the top half.
Fill the bottom half of the bottle with a mixture of water and sugar, then add a sprinkle of fresh yeast.
Insert the top half of the bottle, upside down, into the container.
Wrap a dark cloth around the entire contraption.
Place it in an appropriate spot, such as near a window or door.

The device emits carbon dioxide, which attracts mosquitoes, and the only maintenance required is to empty and refill it once a week.

Here are some additional tips to prevent mosquitoes from taking over your home and garden:

Don’t leave excess water standing in saucers after watering plants. Instead, fill the saucers with fine sand to prevent eggs from being laid.
Flush water through drains at least once a week.
Empty, wash and re-fill pet water bowls and animal water troughs regularly.
Check for sagging drains, guttering, pipes, or other areas where water may have collected.
Avoid leaving stagnant water in the garden, as it's a breeding ground for mosquitoes. This includes small containers like flowerpots and bird baths.
Always empty unused swimming pools, ponds, wheelbarrows and buckets.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about those annoying mosquito bites this summer.

You might also like: Dousing the myth—Why water bottles do not deter peeing dogs and cats

Images: Murcia Salud/Freepik

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