Lehigh Valley Audubon Society (LVAS), working with Pennsylvania Wildlife Rehabilitators (PAWR), is addressing the growing and deadly threat to wildlife as bycatch on glue traps (sticky bands) intended for Spotted Lanternflies (SLFs). Last year alone, MANY hundreds of bird, bat, and squirrel victims were brought to rehabilitators. And this represents only a small percentage of actual victims. Over 30 species of birds including owls and hawks have been victims! Wildlife is attracted for food – primarily native insects stuck unintentionally in the traps.

Glue traps are an indiscriminate method to trap pests; they catch everything that comes in contact, not just SLFs. Glue tree traps were introduced when the strategy was to completely eradicate SLFs. Unfortunately, the chance for eradication was gone by 2018, but officials have been slow to change recommendations. LVAS supports the current strategy to manage SLFs by stopping spread and suppressing populations while researchers develop new specific trapping approaches. But…

So how can I manage SLFs in my yard?

SLFs can be trapped using some great alternatives that don’t use glue! Circle Traps and other non-glue DIY traps work well on infested trees. These take advantage of a unique characteristic of the SLF’s behavior on tree trunks and have been highly effective without bird bycatch. We do not recommend glue tape (sticky band) that is “protected” with wire or mesh since it still has unacceptable wildlife bycatch. Visit our No-Glue page to learn more about Circle Traps and other alternatives.

Still not convinced? Grab a tissue to view the Glue Victims Gallery.

We’re asking for YOUR help to stop the use of GLUE traps

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Please help us spread the word!

We’re preparing support materials you may want to use and will add links as they’re developed.

• Display paper or digital flyers Sticky Situation Flyer

• Share Social Media posts for awareness, Tools for Social Sharing

• Submit news articles with any organization you’re a part of (use one of ours or write your own)

• Respond to Social Media SLF questions with no-glue options

• Communicate with retailers who sell glue traps (to discontinue or add warnings)

• Communicate with commercial and government landowners

• Make a donation to a Rehabilitator. These folks rely on donations and volunteers.

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