CRB Traps

Why Traps Matter

Traps are one of the most important tools for monitoring and reducing Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) populations. They help detect beetle presence early — before large infestations take hold — and can capture adults to slow spread in affected areas.

How They Work

  • Pheromone lures (synthetic scent of the female beetle)

  • Non-pheromone lures such as decaying plant odors or natural oils. Beetles fly toward the scent and are caught in a container or bucket where they can’t escape.

Trap Types

Bucket traps: Durable and effective; typically hung in coconut palms, on poles, or near compost piles

Barrel traps: Used for high-density areas like golf courses or mulch facilities.

Light traps: Sometimes used for night monitoring; attract both male and female beetles.

Panel traps:
Attract and catch beetles during flight at night using pheromone and an LED light .

Homemade traps: Can be built from recycled plastic buckets or soda bottles and baited with coconut waste, fermenting fruit, or neem-based attractants.

Do-It-Yourself Trap Construction

DIY Panel & Barrel Instructions

A very technical DIY guide, courtesy of www.CRBHawaii.org

DIY Barrel + Phermone Instructions

DIY guide courtesy of www.savehawaiianpalms.com

Watch barrel trap demos:

Source: University of Guam CNAS

Best Placement

  • Mount traps traps away from palm crowns, 4–6 feet above ground or in palm canopies away from daily activity areas.

  • Placement: Keep them near known or potential breeding sites — mulch piles, compost, stumps, or green-waste stockpiles.

  • Avoid: placing near healthy palms, to prevent drawing beetles toward living trees.

  • Spacing: Place traps every 50–100 yards in known infested areas.

Maintenance

  • Checkups: Check traps weekly and empty regularly to prevent overflow and decay odor.

  • Replace pheromone lures every 2–3 months (or as directed).

  • Remove and destroy captured beetles — freeze or crush before disposal.

  • Wash traps occasionally with mild soap and water.

Coordination

  • Coordinate with neighbors or community programs to ensure traps are maintained island-wide.

  • Replace pheromone lures every 2–3 months (or as directed).