Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

Which traps can be used to monitor and control various vertebrates?

1. Light traps.

2. Snap traps.

3. DNA tests.

4. Tracking powders.

The correct answer is: Snap traps.

Snap traps are a widely used method for monitoring and controlling various vertebrates, particularly rodents. These traps are designed to capture animals quickly and humanely. They consist of a spring-loaded mechanism that snaps shut when triggered by the animal, causing immediate capture. Their effectiveness makes them suitable for both monitoring populations and directly controlling their numbers. Snap traps can be set in different locations and baited to attract specific species, making them versatile tools for pest management. They provide direct evidence of the presence of a species through captured individuals, allowing for the assessment of pest populations and trends over time. Light traps, while useful in capturing certain insects, do not effectively capture vertebrates. DNA tests are not traps and are more suited for identifying species based on genetic material, while tracking powders are primarily used to monitor animal movement rather than for capture. This delineation highlights why snap traps are the appropriate choice for managing and monitoring vertebrate populations in pest control practices.