First Impressions of SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap
The SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap promises to be a game-changer in outdoor pest control, luring and eliminating a wide array of annoying flying insects. Manufactured by SKEETER HAWK, this “Large” black device boasts a dual-band LED UV light and a whisper-quiet fan system. It’s designed to protect larger backyard spaces from pesky flies, gnats, and even mosquitos. I’ve spent years swatting, spraying, and cursing at bugs while trying to enjoy my patio, so the promise of a silent, effective solution immediately piqued my interest.
What led me to this product was a desperate need for a reliable way to control the ever-present fly and mosquito population around my property. Bug zappers are loud and indiscriminate, and chemical sprays are a constant environmental concern. I was looking for a more targeted and eco-conscious approach.
My initial unboxing experience was straightforward. The device itself is lightweight, primarily constructed of plastic, and the build quality seemed adequate for outdoor use. The foldaway hook is a nice touch, allowing for versatile placement options, and the long cord provides some flexibility in terms of power source proximity.
Compared to other fly traps I’ve used, such as sticky traps and propane-based mosquito magnets, the SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap aims for a different strategy. Sticky traps are unsightly and require constant replacement, while propane-based systems are expensive and require ongoing fuel costs. This SKEETER HAWK promises a simpler, more cost-effective solution based on UV light and airflow.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The design seemed practical, and the promise of targeting a wide range of flying pests without chemicals was appealing. Only real-world testing would reveal if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap on my back patio, a prime location for mosquito activity and general flying insect annoyance. The area is adjacent to a small garden and a wooded area, creating the perfect storm for pest proliferation.
The trap performed adequately in dry conditions, trapping some gnats and smaller flies. However, in humid conditions after a rain, mosquito activity remained stubbornly high. The ease of use was excellent: simply plug it in, hang it up, and turn it on.
My initial surprise was the relatively small number of mosquitoes caught, considering the advertising claims and the high mosquito presence in my testing area.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous operation, the SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap showed a noticeable decrease in gnat and small fly populations around my patio. The device itself showed no significant signs of wear and tear, despite being exposed to varying weather conditions.
Cleaning the device is fairly simple, involving removing the base and emptying the contents. However, the collected insects can sometimes be messy, requiring a thorough rinse. Compared to previous experiences with other pest control methods, the SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap offers a less intrusive solution for smaller flying insects, but is not very useful for mosquitoes.
Breaking Down the Features of SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap
Specifications
The SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap, manufactured by SKEETER HAWK, is a large, black outdoor fly trap designed for adult use. It features a dual-band LED UV light to attract insects and a whisper-quiet fan system to draw them into the trap. The dimensions are not explicitly listed, but it is marketed as “Large” for effectively protecting bigger backyards, around pools and large patios.
These specifications matter because the dual-band LED UV light is meant to target a broad spectrum of flying insects, while the fan system is crucial for trapping them efficiently. The “Large” size designation suggests it’s designed for larger outdoor spaces.
Performance & Functionality
The SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap performs reasonably well at attracting and trapping smaller flying insects like gnats and fruit flies. However, its effectiveness against mosquitoes is questionable, as supported by user feedback stating that mosquitoes are primarily attracted to carbon dioxide, not UV light.
The strength lies in its silent operation and relatively easy cleanup. A significant weakness is its limited effectiveness against mosquitoes, a major concern for many users. While it meets the basic expectation of trapping some flying insects, it falls short in providing comprehensive mosquito control.
Design & Ergonomics
The SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap features a practical design with a foldaway handle/hook for versatile hanging. The all-black plastic construction is lightweight, though it doesn’t exude premium quality. The removable base makes cleaning relatively easy.
There is virtually no learning curve; it’s essentially a plug-and-play device.
Durability & Maintenance
With its plastic construction, the SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. Maintenance involves regular emptying of the collection base, which is straightforward.
Repair options are limited, as there are no readily available replacement parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap comes with a foldaway handle/hook and a long power cord. There are no customization options or additional accessories marketed for this specific model.
While technically other generic hooks or hanging solutions could be used, there’s no designed compatibility with specific accessories.
Pros and Cons of SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap
Pros
- Whisper-quiet operation: Allows for unobtrusive pest control.
- Easy to use: Simple plug-and-play setup.
- Foldaway handle/hook: Provides versatile hanging options.
- Removable base for easy clean-up: Simplifies maintenance.
- Effectively traps gnats and small flies, reducing their populations in the targeted area.
Cons
- Limited effectiveness against mosquitoes, a primary target for many users.
- Plastic construction may not be the most durable for long-term outdoor use.
- Kills beneficial insects along with pests.
Who Should Buy SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap?
The SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap is perfect for homeowners and apartment residents who want a silent and easy-to-use solution for controlling gnats and small flies on patios, decks, and balconies. It is also ideal for individuals who prefer a chemical-free pest control method.
Those primarily concerned with mosquito control should skip this product and explore alternatives such as CO2 traps or professional mosquito control services. A must-have addition would be a CO2 mosquito trap to effectively control mosquitoes.
Conclusion on SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap
The SKEETER HAWK Fly Trap offers a mixed bag of results. Its silent operation and ease of use are definitely strong points.
However, its limited effectiveness against mosquitoes and potential for trapping beneficial insects are significant drawbacks. At $50.44, the price may be justified for those specifically targeting gnats and small flies, but not for those seeking comprehensive mosquito control.
I would recommend this product with reservations, primarily for its ability to control smaller flying insects in a quiet and unobtrusive manner. Consider your specific pest control needs before making a purchase.