AU2013101389A4 - TERMIBUSTERS DIY: A complete out-of-the-box DIY termite colony elimination system, using natural minerals for effective termite control. - Google Patents

Abstract

TERMIBUSTERS DIY A method and a device for monitoring, detecting and controlling insect infestation. The device comprises of a hollow tubular housing defining a bait receiving chamber wherein the hollow tubular housing comprises of an upper end, a bottom end, a circular sidewall between the upper end and the bottom end and a plurality of perforated insect access ports about the circular sidewall; an extractor removably receivable within the hollow tubular housing , an annular cover to be engaged at the upper end of the hollow tubular housing; and a lid to be mounted on the annular cover and secured to the upper end of the hollow tubular housing.

Description

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING INSECT INFESTATION FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to monitoring, detecting and controlling insect infestation and, more particularly, to devices and methods for monitoring and controlling subterranean insects. BACKGROUND Many pests, such as termites, ants, are serious threats throughout the world to structures or objects containing wood or other cellulose containing components. These pests consume cellulose for nutrition and damage the structures or objects containing wood or other cellulose containing components by feeding on them. Subterranean termites, which typically dwell in the soil, often form large colonies. Termites attack and destroy wood almost everywhere in the world. For example, in Australia, termite damage to timber structures, including houses and other buildings, is a mammoth problem. It was estimated in 2009 that the annual costs associated with termite damage to buildings exceeded AU$100 million, and the annual costs of imported chemicals used to manage termites exceeded AU$20 million. There are close to fifty species of termites in the United States, the majority of losses to wood material being caused by subterranean species. Similar situation exists all around the world with their wood and other natural resources being affected by termitoidae such as termites, formicidae like ants, worms and other subterranean creatures. There are variety of methods and apparatuses currently used to detect and control termites. The approaches used for managing subterranean insects and other isopteran pests can be grouped under two categories, the first being a "preventive approach" that seek to prevent insects infestations such as pre treatment of new construction sites with pesticidal agents to prevent subsequent infestation by pests, and the second being "remedial approach" that seek to monitor and control insect infestations such as by inducing the pests to ingest or otherwise come into contact with a toxicant in a bait matrix which is attractive to pests, particularly pests from a specified nest or colony. There are a variety of methods being currently used which involves the use of toxicants and devices by licensed pest controllers to monitor and control insects population. The existing toxicants used by pest controllers are potentially dangerous to the health of human beings, pets and other animals, and also to the surrounding environment. Further, the devices employed are rather complex in operation and inefficient. Henceforth, the apparatuses and methods are inefficient, ineffective or unfeasible from an economic standpoint. 1 As a result of the various practical difficulties, the prior methods and devices have generally seen insignificant commercial implementation despite the long-felt need for nondestructive insect detection techniques and devices. There is still a need for a reliable and easy-to-use apparatus and method for monitoring, detecting and controlling insect infestation. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the invention to provide a device and method for monitoring, detecting and controlling insect infestation. It is another object of the present invention to provide a device for monitoring, detecting and controlling insect infestation that comprises of a hollow tubular housing defining a bait receiving chamber wherein the hollow tubular housing comprises of an upper end, a bottom end, a circular sidewall between the upper end and the bottom end and a plurality of perforated insect access ports about the circular sidewall; an extractor removably receivable within the hollow tubular housing wherein the extractor comprises of a gripping portion at a first end, a circular base at a second end and a plurality of support arms between the gripping portion and the circular base; an annular cover to be engaged at the upper end of the hollow tubular housing; and a lid to be mounted on the annular cover and secured to the upper end of the hollow tubular housing. It is still another object of the present invention to provide a method of monitoring, detecting and controlling insect infestation wherein the method comprises the steps of providing a hollow tubular housing defining a bait receiving chamber and introducing a food source on an extractor which is removably receivable within the hollow tubular housing wherein the extractor comprises of a gripping portion at a first end, a circular base at a second end and a plurality of support arms between the gripping portion and the circular base, the method further includes the steps of engaging an annular cover at the upper end of the hollow tubular housing and mounting a first lid on the annular cover and securing it to the upper end of the hollow tubular housing and periodically observing the hollow tubular housing for insect infestation; introducing a toxic source into an extractor for delivering toxicant to the insects if insect infestation is observed; and replacing the first lid by a second lid and securing it to the upper end of the hollow tubular housing. It is still another object of the present invention to provide a device and a method for monitoring, detecting and controlling insect infestation wherein the insects can be selected from a group consisting of termitoidae such as termites, formicidae such as ants, worms and other subterranean creatures. It is still another object of the invention wherein the device is made of a plastic material. 2 It is still another object of the invention wherein the device is implanted in a hole dug in the ground. It is still another object of the invention to use a plurality of interchangeable lids to depict whether a food source or a toxic source is present in the device. It is still another object of the invention to provide a device with improved safety. It is still another object of the invention to provide a device in which the toxicant is confined within a bait receiving chamber and will not fall out of the device. It is still another object of the invention to provide a device for detecting and controlling formicidae species infestation wherein the device comprises of a coffin shaped hollow housing defining a bait receiving chamber wherein the hollow housing comprises of a base unit having a front end and a rear end, a top lid and a plurality of perforated formicidae access ports about the front end and the rear end of the base unit; and an extractor removably receivable within the hollow housing for enclosing the bait wherein the extractor securely fits into the inner wall of the hollow housing by a locking arrangement with the base unit and the formicidae species enter through the plurality of perforated access ports and consume and/or carry the bait and exit through the plurality of perforated access ports. It is still another object of the invention wherein the toxic source comprises a mixture of sugar, water, boric acid and some stabilizers. It is still another object of the invention to provide a device through which insect infestation can easily be monitored and detected by simply twisting the lid off the hollow tubular housing, peering inside, and twisting the lid back on if there is no insect activity. It is still another object of the invention to provide an effective method by virtue of which the insect colonies can be completely terminated. It is still another object of the invention wherein the food source or the toxic source can be made in the shape of a rod or in the form of solid pellets or a liquid gel. It is still another object of the invention wherein any environmentally harmless toxic source can be used within the device. It is still another object of the invention wherein one or more of the devices and extractors, the key, food source and toxic sources can be packaged together as a kit for monitoring and controlling subterranean insects. 3 It is still another object of the invention in which no part of the kit including the food and toxic sources is dangerous to humans, pets or the surrounding environment. It is still another object of the invention in which the kit can be used safely in a residential environment and avoids the costs associated with engaging a licensed pest controller. It is still another object of the invention to provide a device which is simple in design and efficient in operation and can be produced and marketed on a mass scale. It is still another object of the invention to provide a device which has a flat profile after it is installed below grade so that it does not provide a tripping hazard and does not interfere with the use of home lawn implements, such as a lawn mower. These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent after a review of the following detailed description of the disclosed embodiments and the appended drawing and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For a better understanding of the embodiments described herein and to show more clearly how they may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings which show at least one exemplary embodiment, and in which: FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the device for monitoring, detecting and controlling insect infestation; FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the hollow tubular housing of the device shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the front elevation view of the first part of the hollow tubular housing shown in FIG. 3; FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the annular cover of the device shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 6 is the bottom perspective view of the annular cover shown in FIG. 5; FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the extractor of the device shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 8 is another perspective view of the extractor of the device shown in FIG. 1 with food pellets; FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a first lid of the device shown in FIG. 1; 4 FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the first lid shown in FIG. 9; FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a second lid of the device shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of the second lid shown in FIG.11; FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the second lid shown in FIG.11, with a key arranged to engage protrusions formed on the second lid; FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the second lid shown in FIG. 11, with the key engaged with projections formed on top of the lid; FIG. 15 is a prespective view of the device used for detecting and controlling formicidae infestation; FIG. 16 is an exploded view of the device used for detecting and controlling formicidae infestation; and FIG. 17 is an exploded side view of the device used for detecting and controlling formicidae infestation showing its various elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF REPRESENTATIVE EMBODIMENTS For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described embodiments, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates. FIG. 1 illustrates a device for monitoring, detecting and controlling insect infestation, generally illustrated by reference numeral 10, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The device 10 has its applications in terminating the insect colonies by virtue of its application. The device 10 is generally made of plastic material although other materials can be used. The device is placed in a hole dug in a ground around suitable locations for monitoring, detecting and controlling insect infestation. FIG. 1 shows the device 10 which includes a hollow tubular housing 12 , an annular cover 20 and a lid 18 to be mounted on the annular cover 20. The hollow tubular housing 12 of the device 10 defines a bait receiving chamber 62 wherein the hollow tubular housing 12 comprises of an upper end 34 , a 5 bottom end 42 , a circular sidewall 13a between the upper end 34 and the bottom end 42 and a plurality of perforated insect access ports 66 about the circular sidewall 13a. As best illustrated in the exploded view of FIG. 2, the device 10 includes an extractor 14 which is removably receivable within the hollow tubular housing 12. After the extractor 14 is inserted into the bait receiving chamber 62 of the hollow tubular housing 12, the annular cover 20 is engaged at the upper end 34 of the hollow tubular housing 12 and the lid 18 is mounted on the annular cover 20 and secured to the upper end 34 of the hollow tubular housing 12. FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 describes the various elements of the hollow tubular housing 12 in detail. The hollow tubular housing 12 comprises of two identical parts 12a, 12b fixed together. Each part 12a, 12b has locating holes 22 (shown in FIG.4) for receiving corresponding locating pins 24 that extend out from the opposed part 12a, 12b. The hollow tubular housing 12 also comprises of locking tabs 26 for engaging corresponding locking recesses 28 for the tabs 26 formed in the opposed part 12b, 12a. There are strengthening ridges 30 which extend longitudinally along the edges. Each part 12a, 12b has a circumferentially extending flange 32 near the upper end 34, radially outwardly extending projections 36 for securing the annular cover 20 to the hollow tubular housing 12 and radially inwardly extending projections 38 for securing the lid 18 to the hollow tubular housing 12. Each part 12a, 12b further comprises soil anchors in the form of barbs 40 formed on the bottom end 42 . The hollow tubular housing 12 has a plurality of perforated insect access ports 66a, 66b, 66c. The hollow tubular housing 12 also defines a debris catching portion 68 at the bottom end 42. No entry points are formed in the housing 12 around the debris catching portion 68, apart from the hole 66c at the bottom end 42. In an embodiment of the invention, the hollow tubular housing 12 may be formed from a single unitary member. In another embodiment of the invention, the hollow tubular housing 12 may be formed from a plurality of members integrated together. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the hollow tubular housing 12 has sixty-seven perforated insect access ports 66a, 66b, 66c in total. Fifty-six of the perforated insect access ports 66a are circumferentially extending slots, ten of the perforated insect access ports 66b are longitudinally extending slots, and the other perforated insect access ports (indicated by the arrow 66c) is a round hole formed between the parts 12a, 12b at the bottom end 42. Six of the longitudinally extending slots 66b are defined between the strengthening ridges 30 when the hollow tubular housing 12 is assembled. 6 In another embodiment of the invention, the number, shape and location of the perforated insect access ports 66a, 66b and 66c can all be varied to suit necessary requirements. The procedure of assembling the hollow tubular housing 12 and the annular cover 20 will now be explained with the help of FIG. 3, FIG. 4 and FIG. 6. The hollow tubular housing 12 is assembled by pushing the two identical parts 12a, 12b of the hollow tubular housing 12 together. The locating pins 24 (shown in FIG. 4) of each part 12a, 12b are connected in the corresponding locating holes 22 of the opposed part 12b, 12a. The locking tabs 26 of each part 12a, 12b engage the corresponding locking recesses 28 of the opposed part 12b, 12a to secure the two parts 12a, 12b to one another. The upper end 34 of the connected housing parts 12a, 12b is inserted through the opening 48 (shown in FIG.6) of the annular cover 20, such that the outwardly extending projections 36 (shown in FIG. 3) of the housing parts 12a,12b are received through the corresponding recesses 60 (shown in FIG.6) in the annular cover 20 and the annular cover 20 sits on the flanges 32. The annular cover 20 is then rotated relative to the coupled parts 12a, 12b to misalign the projections 36 and recesses 60, and so securely retain the annular cover 20 to the coupled parts 12a, 12b. The hollow tubular housing 12 defines a bait receiving chamber 62 between the connected parts 12a, 12b. The bait receiving chamber 62 is shaped to hold a substance for monitoring the subterranean insects activity or for delivering toxicant to subterranean insects. The hollow tubular housing 12 has a circular opening 64 at the upper end 34 for removing a substance from the bait receiving chamber 62, introducing a substance into the bait receiving chamber 62, or visually inspecting the bait receiving chamber 62 and its contents. The hollow tubular housing 12 tapers from the upper end 34 of the device 10 towards the bottom end 42. With reference to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 there is shown an annular cover 20 which comprises of plate 44, base portion 46 and a central, circular opening 48 that passes through the plate 44 and base portion 46. The plate portion 44 comprises of a upper surface 50 and a lower surface 52. An annular recess 54 is formed in the upper surface 50 adjacent the opening 48. There are radially extending strengthening ridges 56 on the lower surface 52 of the annular cover 20. The base portion 46 has an annular lip 58 which includes a plurality of circumferentially extending recesses 60. FIG.7 illustrates the extractor 14 which is removably receivable within the hollow tubular housing 12. The extractor 14 is used to introduce a substance 114 into the bait receiving chamber 62 (shown in FIG. 3) and to remove the substance 114 from the bait receiving chamber 62. The extractor 14 has a gripping portion 70 at a first end, a circular base 72 for supporting the substance 114 at a second 7 end, and two spaced-apart support arms 74 extending between the gripping portion 70 and the circular base 72. In another embodiment of the invention, the substance 114 can be a wooden material to be used as a food source for the insect, for example, a cardboard. In another embodiment of the invention, the extractor 14 can have a plurality of support arms 74 between the gripping portion 70 and the circular base 72. In another embodiment of the invention, the extractor 14 can have locking means which engage with the hollow tubular housing 12 to provide more rigidity and stability to the extractor. FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of the invention, in which the extractor 14 can have the food source compressed into one or more solid pellets 114. In another embodiment of the invention, the extractor 14 can have a cup shape body to contain the substance for the insects. In another embodiment of the invention, the extractor 14 can have any suitable geometrical configuration that can be inserted into the bait receiving chamber 62. Referring back to FIG. 1 a lid 18 is to be mounted on the annular cover 20 and secured to the upper end 34 of the hollow tubular housing 12. In another embodiment of the invention, the device 10 can have interchangeable lids 16, 18 as shown from FIG. 9 to FIG. 12 depending on the use of the device 10 . While one lid 16 depicts that the hollow tubular housing 12 holds a substance for monitoring the subterranean insects activity for example food; the other lid 18 will depict that a toxic substance is kept in the hollow tubular housing 12. The lids 16, 18 will have different physical appearances so as to be easily distinguishable by an observer. The lids 16,18 can be used to selectively close the opening 64 (shown in FIG. 3) of the device 10. As shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 the lid 16 has an annular top 76 and a base 78 that defines a circular opening 80 and a recess 82 below the opening 80. The lid 16 includes a handle portion 84 for moving the lid 16 relative to the hollow tubular housing 12 that extends across the opening 80. The handle portion 84 is arranged to be gripped by a user, such as between an index finger and thumb of a user. A cylindrical skirt 86 extends down from the top 76 and around the base 78. A plurality of slots 88 are formed in the skirt 86 for receiving the radially inwardly extending projections 38 of the hollow tubular housing 12 to secure the lid 16 to the hollow tubular housing 12. The slots 88 extend from a 8 bottom of the skirt 86 towards the top 76, and then circumferentially in a counter-clockwise direction (as viewed looking down on the device 10) to ends 90 that define home positions for the projections 38 when the lid 16 is secured to the hollow tubular housing 12. The lid 16 is secured to the hollow tubular housing 12 to substantially close the opening 64 by inserting the base 78 and the skirt 86 of the lid 16 in the opening 64 (shown in FIG. 3) so that the projections 38 engage the slots 88, and rotating the lid 16 relative to the hollow tubular housing 12 in a clockwise direction until the projections 38 reach the ends 90 of the slots 88. The top 76 of the lid 16 is received in the annular recess 54 (shown in FIG.5) formed in the annular cover 20 so that top 76 of the lid 16 is generally flush with the annular cover 20. The lid 16 is released from the hollow tubular housing 12 by rotating the lid 16 relative to the hollow tubular housing 12 in a counter-clockwise direction. The ends 90 of the slots 88 are shaped to inhibit the lid 16 from inadvertently rotating in the counter-clockwise direction when the projections 38 are in the home positions. The second lid 18 is used when the hollow tubular housing 12 is holding a substance for delivering toxicant to subterranean insects. Referring to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 the lid 18 has circular top 92 and a cylindrical skirt 94 that extends down from the top 92. A plurality of slots 96 are formed in the skirt 94 for receiving the radially inwardly extending projections 38 (shown in FIG. 3) of the hollow tubular housing 12 to secure the lid 18 to the hollow tubular housing 12. The lid 18 also comprises of key engaging portions 104. The slots 96 extend from a bottom of the skirt 94 towards the top 92, and then circumferentially in a clockwise direction to ends 98 that define home positions for the projections 38 when the lid 18 is secured to the hollow tubular housing 12. The lid 18 is secured to the hollow tubular housing 12 to substantially close the opening 64 by inserting the skirt 94 of the lid 18 in the opening 64 so that the projections 38 engage the slots 96, and rotating the lid 18 relative to the hollow tubular housing 12 in a clockwise direction until the projections 38 reach the ends 98 of the slots 96. The top 92 of the lid 18 is received in the annular recess 54 formed in the cover 20 so that top 92 of the lid 18 is generally flush with the annular cover 20. The lid 18 is released from the hollow tubular housing 12 by rotating the lid 18 relative to the hollow tubular housing 12 in a clockwise direction instead of in the usual counter clockwise loosening direction, and then lifting the lid 18 away from the hollow tubular housing 12. The ends 98 of the slots 96 are again shaped to inhibit the lid 18 from inadvertently rotating in the clockwise direction when the projections 38 are in the home positions. In another embodiment of the invention, as shown with reference to FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, the second lid 18 is arranged to be rotated and lifted away from the hollow tubular housing 12 with a key 100 so that the toxic substance does not comes into contact with the person's hand while using the device 10. The key 100 has a foot 102 for engaging spaced apart key-engaging formations 104 formed on the top 92 9 of the lid 18, and a handle 106 that extends from the foot 102. The handle 106 is shaped to be gripped by a user and used to rotate the key 100 and the lid 18. The handle 106 generally has a T-shape defined by a transverse section 108 and a leg section 110 extending between the foot 102 and the transverse section 108. The key-engaging formations 104 converge towards to one another so that when the foot 102 is moved between formations 104 in the direction indicated by the reference number 112 (shown in FIG. 13) to engage the formations 104, the foot 102 is unable to be move past the end position shown in FIG. 14. Adjacent edges of the formations 104 are recessed or undercut to retain the foot 102, so that the foot 102 can only be disengaged from the key-engaging formations 104 by moving the key 100 in the opposite direction to the direction 112 shown in FIG. 13. Advantageously, a hole (not shown) is formed in the handle 106 so that the key 100 can be retained on a keying. In another embodiment of the invention, the device 10 includes means for indicating whether the device 10 is being used for monitoring the subterranean insect activity or for delivering toxicant to the subterranean insects. For example, the lids 16,18 may be different colors to visually indicate when the device 10 is being used for monitoring and when the device 10 is being used for delivering toxicant. In one preferred color scheme, for example, the hollow tubular housing 12 and the first lid 16 may be green and the second lid 18 may be red. In another embodiment of the invention, the lids 16, 18 could have some other indicia or structural difference that indicates when the device 10 is being used for monitoring and when the device 10 is being used for delivering toxicant. In another embodiment of the invention, a sticker can be pasted on the lid to indicate the presence of toxicant in the hollow tubular housing 12. In another embodiment of the invention, a single lid can be used in the device 10. In another embodiment of the invention, a computer-assisted system for monitoring the state of the device10 can be used. It is preferred that the device 10 bears an identifying indicia, preferably an optically scannable indicia, such as a bar code. It is specifically contemplated that either the lid will have a self-adhesive label bearing a unique optically scannable bar code. Therefore, it is contemplated that the bar codes associated with the device 10 will store the information that whether a toxicant or the food source is placed in the device 10 and the device 10 would be optically scanned into a data entry/storage device (not shown). Many suitable portable data entry/storage devices equipped with bar code scanners are commercially available and are useful in the present invention, such as devices used for inventory control 10 in retail stores. Such devices are typically highly portable and are battery operated. They include two data input devices: one being a miniature keyboard for alpha/numeric data entry and the other being an optical scanner for bar code data entry. These devices also include a data output device, such as an LCD display which is connected to the CPU for displaying data entry instructions from the CPU, for displaying entered data, for displaying data retrieved from the memory device and for displaying other instructions from the CPU. Such devices typically store and retrieve data from a computer database having predefined data fields. The database can be stored in the memory device or it can be transmitted to a remote location for storage and retrieval from a remote or central computer. The method for detecting, monitoring and controlling of subterranean termites or other isopteran pests using a plurality of the devices 10 will now be described. The devices 10 are secured around a target timber building, such as a residential house. A plurality of circular holes for the devices 10 are formed around the building. In particularly hard ground, it may be necessary to first drive a stake (not shown) into the ground to form pilot holes. The pilot holes can be filled with water to soften the soil before forming larger holes for the devices 10. In another embodiment of the invention, a hole digging kit which comprises of a digging shaft with a hollow housing attached to its digging end may be used for making holes in the ground. In another embodiment of the invention any suitable device which can dig holes can be used. In another embodiment of the invention, a custom digging tool, such as an auger, for forming holes with a correct depth and diameter for the devices 10 can be used. In another embodiment of the invention, a stake that can be driven into the ground to form pilot holes that can be filled with water to soften the soil before forming larger holes for the devices 10 can be used. The holes for a plurality of devices 10 are spaced so that the devices 10 can be installed about 2-3 meters apart from each other and about 1-3 meters away from the foundation of the building. Preferably the devices 10 are also installed away from any eaves of the building as soil tends to remain particularly dry under eaves and subterranean termites are less likely to forage in dry areas. Each hole is then filled with water and allowed to drain to wet the soil below the surface and around the hole. The moistened ground around the holes encourages termites to forage in the vicinity of the devices 10. After the holes have drained and any grass has been cut away from the tops of the holes, the devices 10 are placed in the holes so that the upper end 34 is at or near the surface and the bottom end 42 11 is underground. As each device 10 is inserted into the respective holes, the tapering outside of the hollow tubular housing 12 of the device 10 forces the hollow tubular housing 12 against the side(s) of the hole to firmly anchor the hollow tubular housing 12 in place. The soil around the hollow tubular housing 12 dries and hardens around the tapering outside of the hollow tubular housing 12 and the barbs 40, with the barbs 40 engaging the ground to firmly hold the device 10 in place. The annular cover 20 of each device 10 protects the device 10, and also shades soil surrounding the device 10 to keep the soil cool and moist in warmer climates. Preferably, each device 10 is countersunk so that the upper plate portion 44 of the annular cover 20 sits generally flush with or just below the surface of the ground and a lawn mower can safely pass over the device 10 without damaging the device 10. A substance for monitoring the subterranean termite activity and recruiting termites or other insects to each device 10 in the form of a food source is introduced into the bait receiving chamber 62 using the extractor 14. With reference to FIG. 7, for example, the food source may advantageously have the shape of a rod 114. In another embodiment of the invention, the food source may be compressed into one or more solid pellets. The food source is supported on the base 72 of the extractor 14, and the extractor 14 is lowered into the hollow tubular housing 12 through the opening 64. Preferably, the food source for monitoring and recruiting termites is relatively cheap to manufacture, bio-degradable, environmentally safe and attractive to a range of target subterranean termite species. In another embodiment of the invention, the food source may comprise, for example, about 80% recycled cellulose fibre and about 20% polystyrene balls. In another embodiment of the invention, naturally-occurring foods such as deadwood, trees and wood used in human constructions, and other known termite matrices can be used as a food source. These sources contains cellulose, water and termite-preferred nutrients and serve as good termite attractants. In another embodiment of the invention, a termite attractant (such as, for example, a suitable pheromone) can be provided in addition to the food source in the device 10 . In another embodiment of the invention, the recycled cellulose fibre or recycled cardboard that appeals to a wide range of termite species may be used as a food source. In another embodiment of the invention, fungi may be used as the food source. Termite species have been found to be attracted to specific fungi, with the fungi forming part of their diet. The fungi 12 causes foraging termites that enter into the bait receiving chamber 62 to assume that they have found a much larger food source than they actually have since many of the target termite species that are primarily responsible for damage to timber buildings actively seek large food sources. In another embodiment of the invention, the food source may have other suitable ratios of cellulose fibre and polystyrene. In another embodiment of the invention, any other suitable food sources can be used with the devices 10, although it will be understood that some other food sources such some timber species are termite species specific. In another embodiment of the invention, the first colored lid 16 for monitoring for termite activity is secured to each device hollow tubular housing 12 to substantially close the opening 64. The lid 16 is secured to the hollow tubular housing 12 by rotating the lid 16 by hand in a clockwise direction. The top 76 of the lid 16 is received in the annular recess 54 formed in the annular cover 20 so that top 76 of the lid 16 is generally flush with the annular cover 20. The devices 10 are then monitored for termite activity by checking the devices 10 on a regular basis. For example, the devices 10 may be checked in the first day of every week till six months and, if there is no activity for six months, monthly thereafter. The device 10 is checked by removing the lid 16 and visually inspecting the bait receiving chamber 62 and its contents through the opening 64 for foraging termites entering and exiting via the entry points and consuming the food source. In another embodiment of the invention, the user checking the device 10 uses gloves to avoid touching the device 10 and the food source with bare hands and transferring human scent to the device 10 or the food source because of the fact that the human scent may discourage termites from the vicinity of the devices 10. If there is no termite activity, the food source should be replaced every six months, or earlier if the food source degrades to the point of ineffectiveness sooner. When replacing the food sources, before putting the new food sources in the devices 10, the devices 10 should be first filled with water that drains into and again wets the surrounding soil to increase the possibility of recruiting foraging termites to the devices 10. If termite activity is observed when monitoring a device 10, the food source is replaced with a second substance in the form of a toxic source for delivering toxicant to the termites. The first lid 16 is twisted off the hollow tubular housing 12 by hand. The extractor 14 and anything remaining of the food source are then removed from the hollow tubular housing 12 by inserting a gloved finger under the 13 gripping portion 70 of the extractor 14 and pulling the extractor 14 and any remaining food source out through the opening 64. Any remaining food source is replaced with the toxic source. In another embodiment of the invention, the toxic source may again have the shape of a rod. In another embodiment of the invention, the toxic source is preferably bio-degradable and non toxic to humans, plants, other animals and generally environmentally safe. One preferred form of the toxic source, for example, has about 80% recycled cellulose fibre, about 15% polystyrene balls and, as its active ingredient, about 5% boric acid. Boric acid is toxic to termites causing death when ingested, but goes undetected by termites as they consume it. In the small quantities being used, boric acid poses no threat to human beings and so can be safely used by a user such as a building owner. In another embodiment of the invention, the toxic source may have other suitable ratios of cellulose fibre, polystyrene and the active ingredient. In another embodiment of the invention any other suitable and environmentally harmless toxic source can be used in the device 10. In another embodiment of the invention, toxic source can directly be placed in the device 10 without placing the food source earlier. The extractor 14, with the toxic source, is lowered back into the hollow tubular housing 12. The second colored second lid 18 is then secured to the device hollow tubular housing 12 to substantially close the opening 64. The lid 18 is rotated relative to the hollow tubular housing 12 in a counter-clockwise direction using the key 100. The top 92 of the lid 18 is again received in the annular recess 54 formed in the annular cover 20 so that top 92 of the lid 18 is generally flush with the annular cover 20. In another embodiment of the invention, the foraging termites continue to enter and exit the bait receiving chamber 62 via the perforated access ports 66a, 66b, 66c formed in the hollow tubular housing 12, ingesting the toxic source instead of the food source and carrying the toxicant back to the colony to share with other termites. As members of the colony die from having ingested the toxicant, the toxicant is transferred to other members of the colony who consume the toxicant-carrying corpses. The toxicant quickly spreads throughout the colony. Colony elimination can occur within twelve weeks. The visually distinct second lid 18 that is configured to be secured to and released from the hollow tubular housing 12 using the key 100 ensures that devices 10 being used to monitor for termite 14 activity can be easily identified and distinguished from devices 10 being used to deliver toxicant to termites, without checking contents of the device 10. The second lid 18 ensures that the toxic source remains undisturbed while foraging termites consume the toxicant. During that period, devices 10 with the first lid 16 can continue to be monitored. In another embodiment of the invention, a plurality of devices 10 are installed around or in the vicinity of a building or wooden structure to reduce the likelihood of termite infestations occurring therein. The present invention also contemplates such a system or array of devices as well as the method for using such system or array alone or in combination with conventional perimeter termiticide spray applications to control termites in the vicinity of a building or wooden structure to be protected. Examples of termite species (but not limited to) which can be controlled by use of the disclosed method includes Coptotermes formosanus, Reticulitermes flavipes, R. hesperus, R. virginicus, R. tibialis, and Heterotermes aureus, as well as termite species of the families (and pest genera) Mastotermitidae (Mastotermes species), Hodotermididae (Anacanthotermes, Zootermopsis species), Rhinotermitidae (Coptotermes, Heterotermes, Reticulitermes, Psammotermes, Prorhinotermes, Schedorhinotermes species), Kalotermitidae (Glyptotermes, Neotermes, Cryptotermes, Incisitermes, Kalotermes, Marginitermes species), Serritermitidae, and Termitidae (Pericapritermes,Allodonternes,Microternes, Odontoternes,Nasutiternes, Termes,Amiternes, Globitermes,Microceroternes species), Termopsidae (Hodotermopsis, Zootermopsis species), and other pest species of termites. The device 10 is designed to substantially self-clean during normal operation with regular operation of the extractor 14. During use, dirt and other small particles fall into and accumulate in the debris catching portion 68 of the bait receiving chamber 62 as foraging termites, ants, worms and other subterranean creatures enter and exit the bait receiving chamber 62 via the entry points formed in the hollow tubular housing 12. Over time, the dirt accumulates and compacts into a solid dirt plug around the base 72 of the extractor 14. The tapering bait receiving chamber 62 advantageously enables the dirt plug to be lifted out of the bait receiving chamber 62 via the opening 64 when the extractor 14 is removed, such as when replacing the food source. The bait receiving chamber 62 widens in the direction that the extractor 14 is removed, inhibiting the dirt plug from rubbing against and becoming stuck on the hollow tubular housing 12 and eventually breaking away from the extractor 14. Instead, the tapering design of the bait receiving chamber 62 effectively releases the dirt plug as the extractor 14 is removed. Further because, no entry points are formed in the hollow tubular housing 12 around the debris catching portion 68, apart from the hole 66c at the bottom end 42, the hollow tubular housing 12 inhibits roots growing into the debris catching portion 68 that can inhibit the self-cleaning function. 15 In an embodiment of the invention, one or more of the devices 10 and extractors 14, the key 100, and food and toxic sources can be packaged together as a kit for monitoring and controlling subterranean insects. Alternatively or additionally, the food and toxic sources can be supplied separately. In another embodiment of the invention, no part of the kit including the food and toxic sources is dangerous to humans, pets or the surrounding environment. The kit can be used safely in a residential environment and avoids the costs associated with engaging a licensed pest controller. Further, the ease with which the devices 10 can be monitored by simply twisting the lid 16 off the hollow tubular housing 12, peering inside, and twisting the lid 16 back on if there is no termite activity makes it more likely, in practice, that a user will continue to regularly monitor devices 10 without engaging a pest controller. No special tool is required for the lid 16 that is used when monitoring the device 10. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 shows the modification of the device 10 which is used for detecting and controlling formicidae species infestation. The device 200 for detecting and controlling formicidae species infestation comprises of a coffin shaped hollow housing 201 defining a bait receiving chamber wherein the hollow housing 201 comprises of a base unit 201b having a front end 202 and a rear end 203, a top lid 201a and a plurality of perforated formicidae access ports 210 (only one of which is shown) about the front end 202 and the rear end 203 of the base unit 201b; and an extractor 205 removably receivable within the hollow housing 201 for enclosing the bait wherein the extractor 205 securely fits into the inner wall of the hollow housing 201 by a locking arrangement with the base unit 201b and the formicidae species enter through the plurality of perforated access ports 210 (only one of which is shown) and consume and/or carry the bait and exit through the plurality of perforated access ports 210. Again Referring to FIG. 15 there is shown the device 200 with the base unit 201b (shown in FIG.16) and the top lid 201a (shown in FIG.16) assembled together to form the hollow housing 201. The device 200 further comprises of side walls 204a and 204b. In another embodiment of the invention, the device 200 comprises of a plurality of perforated access ports about the sidewalls and the two faces of the hollow housing 201 in addition to the front end 202 and a rear end 203. In another embodiment of the invention, the device 200 can have any other geometrical shape. 16 The device 200 further comprises an extractor 205 which is removably receivable within the hollow housing 201 for enclosing the bait wherein the extractor 205 securely fits into the inner wall of the hollow housing 201 by a locking arrangement. As depicted in FIG. 17 the first end 205a and the second end 205b of the extractor 205 have protrusions which fit into the recesses on the front end 202 and the rear end 203 of the base unit 201b of the hollow housing 201. This provides stability to the extractor inside the hollow housing 201. In an embodiment of the invention, the recesses can be made on the top lid 201a of the hollow housing 201 or can be on both the top lid 201a and base unit 201b. The extractor 205 encloses the bait for the formicidae species wherein the formicidae species enter through the plurality of perforated access ports 210 and consume and/or carry the bait and exit through the plurality of perforated access ports 210. The bait is a toxic substance which kills the formicidae species. Since the ants usually move in a queue, they enter the perforated access ports and can carry the toxic bait with them back to the colony and distribute it with the queen ant and other ants in the colony, so this leads to the termination of the ants in the colony as well. In another embodiment of the invention, the bait comprises of a mixture of sugar, water, boric acid and some stabilizers which together form a gel like consistent mixture. In another embodiment of the invention, the bait can be any environmentally harmless toxicant which kills the ants. In another embodiment of the invention, the device 200 is usually made of plastic material although other materials can be used. In another embodiment of the invention, the formicidae species comprises of various families of ants. In another embodiment of the invention, the plurality of access ports can be of various sizes and shapes. In another embodiment of the invention, the bait is periodically observed and replaced when entirely extinguished. While the present invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate numerous modifications and variations therefrom. It is intended 17 that the appended claims cover all such modifications and variations as fall within the true spirit and scope of this present invention. 18

Claims (29)

1. A device for monitoring, detecting and controlling insect infestation, wherein the device comprises: a hollow tubular housing defining a bait receiving chamber wherein the hollow tubular housing comprises of an upper end, a bottom end, a circular sidewall between the upper end and the bottom end and a plurality of perforated insect access ports about the circular sidewall; an extractor removably receivable within the hollow tubular housing wherein the extractor comprises of a gripping portion at a first end, a circular base at a second end and a plurality of support arms between the gripping portion and the circular base; an annular cover to be engaged at the upper end of the hollow tubular housing; and a lid to be mounted on the annular cover and secured to the upper end of the hollow tubular housing.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device is made of a plastic material.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device is implanted in a hole dug into the ground.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the insect can be selected from a group consisting of termitoidae such as termites, formicidae such as ants, worms and other subterranean creatures.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the circular sidewall is tapered towards the bottom end.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the bait is a food source or a toxic source.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the bait is supported on the circular base of the extractor.

8. The device according to claim 1, wherein the gripping portion is used by a person to remove the extractor from the hollow tubular housing.

9. The device according to claim 1, wherein the annular cover has a central opening for receiving the lid.

10. The device according to claim 1, wherein a key is used to remove the lid from the annular cover.

11. A method of monitoring, detecting and controlling insect infestation, wherein the method comprises of: providing a hollow tubular housing defining a bait receiving chamber wherein the hollow tubular housing comprises of an upper end, a bottom end, a circular sidewall between the upper end and the bottom end and a plurality of perforated insect access ports about the circular sidewall; 1 introducing a food source on an extractor which is removably receivable within the hollow tubular housing wherein the extractor comprises of a gripping portion at a first end, a circular base at a second end and a plurality of support arms between the gripping portion and the circular base; engaging an annular cover at the upper end of the hollow tubular housing; mounting a first lid on the annular cover and securing it to the upper end of the hollow tubular housing; periodically observing the hollow tubular housing for insect infestation; introducing a toxic source into an extractor for delivering toxicant to the insects if insect infestation is observed; and replacing the first lid by a second lid and securing it to the upper end of the hollow tubular housing.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the insect can be selected from a group consisting of termitoidae such as termites, formicidae such as ants, worms and other subterranean creatures.

13. The method according to claim 11, wherein the circular sidewall is tapered towards the bottom end.

14. The method according to claim 11, wherein the toxic source comprises of 80% recycled cellulose fiber, 115% polystyrene balls and 5% boric acid.

15. The method according to claim 11, wherein food source and toxic source is supported on the circular base of the extractor.

16. The method according to claim 11, wherein the first lid is used when food source is placed in the extractor.

17. The method according to claim 11, wherein the second lid is used when toxic source is placed in the extractor.

18. The method according to claim 11, wherein the first lid is of a first color.

19. The method according to claim 11, wherein the second lid is of a second color different from the first color.

20. The method according to claim 11, wherein the gripping portion is used by a person to remove the extractor from the hollow tubular housing.

21. The method according to claim 11, wherein the annular cover has a central opening for receiving the first lid or the second lid.

22. The method according to claim 11, wherein the food source is replenished periodically if no insect infestation is observed.

23. The method according to claim 11, wherein the toxic source can be directly placed in the extractor. 2

24. A device for detecting and controlling formicidae species infestation, said the device comprising: a coffin shaped hollow housing defining a bait receiving chamber wherein the hollow housing comprises of a base unit having a front end and a rear end, a top lid and a plurality of perforated formicidae access ports about the front end and the rear end of the base unit; and an extractor removably receivable within the hollow housing for enclosing the bait wherein the extractor securely fits into the inner wall of the hollow housing by a locking arrangement with the base unit and the formicidae species enter through the plurality of perforated access ports and consume and/or carry the bait and exit through the plurality of perforated access ports.

25. The device according to claim 24, wherein the device is made up of plastic material.

26. The device according to claim 24, wherein the formicidae species comprises of various families of ants.

27. The device according to claim 24, wherein the bait is a toxic source comprising a mixture of sugar, water, boric acid and some stabilizers.

28. The device according to claim 24, wherein the plurality of access ports can be of various sizes and shapes.

29. The device according to claim 24, wherein the bait is periodically observed and replaced when entirely extinguished. 3