Control of plague vectors on Peromyscus maniculatus by use of 2 percent carbaryl dust in bait stations.

Abstract

A flea population, predominantly Monopsyllus wagneri (Baker), on Peromyscus maniculatus in a Rocky Mountain mixed coniferous forest community was reduced 93% in 24 hr by use of 2% carbaryl (Sevin®) in bait stations spaced at 30.5 m. Application rates were 100–200 g per station with 10 stations/ha, or approximately 24 g actual carbaryl/ha. Control was maintained for 9 weeks, with the stations rebaited as needed. There was no measurable deterioration of carbaryl in bait stations for 11 weeks. Reproduction of P. maniculalus did not appear to be inhibited by the treatment. A simple, easily constructed bait station, made from a 50.8-cm length of 10.2-cm diameter plastic sewer pipe, is suggested.