Moth Trap Light Source Ideas?

Nature Talk
1

This summer, I am planning on making a trap-and-release moth trap and wondering what types and formats of light sources would fit best. For size, I was thinking about using just a plastic large weed bucket or a large plastic nursery plant pot and going to use empty egg cartons inside.

2

What about a keyring light? Small, battery powered, and I don’t think they would generate much heat.

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3

good idea but how long do they usually last? I am hoping for keeping the possible light source on all night for better results.

4

This one claims up to 22hrs on its lowest setting. Its flat too, so you don’t have to figure out how to keep it upright.

https://www.amazon.com/Brinyte-A02-Flashlight-Rechargeable-Waterproof/dp/B0CJ55TLNQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_15?crid=5ZQLYC9WJT1X&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.JpKANtFVws2Jq_G4HwDAIqLEHcjMW6tp6EeuegSsJ7NcO9h6jVDA8czOXqA_Wus9r95bW-QnKf8Rmfv9wVY23wOw4WeGbNWFdPc9Ig71egQ_WErA2aCp1VL7dVhXUPBnzr7Uy9himnW-AKsoZ-WDQdMJ4vVwmKFPe6q3WrgM3tGuB5hUbUWXw65B-Y4QUW4KHh24PAVgmZaTKH8Rgpcgfw.9HbQcuh1uY9bJsJiRdTwHfZvKYr4v2kbdmUIfE-UKhE&dib_tag=se&keywords=key+ring+light&qid=1747616364&refinements=p_n_feature_seven_browse-bin%3A122338864011&rnid=122338155011&sprefix=%2Caps%2C217&sr=8-15

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5

I find LED lights don’t do a great job attracting moths, unless they are specific UV wavelength LED. Entolights have a new smaller USB powered light available. I love my regular ones and they seriously have helped to up the moths I’ve seen.

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6

Best cheap and widely-available option (IMO) is compact fluorescent blacklight. Second best is UV LED fixture in whichever form factor works best for your application. The USB mini Entolight is a good choice if it’s in your budget, as it can be powered from the wall or USB battery pack: https://entoquip.com/usb/

see also previous threads:
https://forum.inaturalist.org/t/light-traps-for-moths-with-limited-power-sources/12028
https://forum.inaturalist.org/t/attracting-moths-with-light-source-abroad/33306
https://forum.inaturalist.org/t/light-setups-for-mothing/48231
https://forum.inaturalist.org/t/mercury-vapor-light-for-mothing/26716

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