Zappers kill beneficial insects like moths and beetles. Even if they caught a few black flies, the ecological cost isn’t worth it. Stick to repellents or mesh screens!
Used a zapper during a camping trip. It zapped tons of mosquitoes but only a handful of black flies. Better than nothing, but definitely not a standalone solution.
In my area (wooded mountains), zappers work moderately well for black flies if placed near water sources. Maybe regional factors affect their effectiveness?
Zapper bulbs burn out fast, and replacements add up. For the price, I’d rather invest in a good repellent or a portable net tent for outdoor meals.
I only use my zapper during peak black fly season (late spring). Combined with dawn/dusk avoidance, it reduces bites. Still need DEET for hikes though!
In my suburban backyard, zappers help with flies and mosquitoes. But when I camp in rural areas with heavy black fly populations? Totally useless. Context matters!
I added a CO2 dispenser near my zapper (using dry ice). Now it attracts more black flies! Not perfect, but a creative hack for those stubborn pests.
Studies show black flies rely 90% on CO2 cues, not UV light. Zappers are misaligned with their biology. Manufacturers should innovate traps targeting specific species.