WO2024013507A1

WO2024013507A1 - Weevil trap

Info

Publication number: WO2024013507A1
Application number: PCT/GB2023/051844
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Paul Mason; Robin Henderson Strang
Original assignee: Neemco Limited
Priority date: 2022-07-15
Filing date: 2023-07-13
Publication date: 2024-01-18
Also published as: GB202210464D0; GB2620643A

Abstract

A method of controlling a plant pest, said method comprising applying a pest repellent to a plant to be protected from the plant pest and locating a trap around or within a site containing the plant to be protected, such that the trap catches repelled pests. A method of controlling or preventing large pine weevil attacks on tree saplings, said method comprising applying a neem repellent agent to a tree sapling being attacked by a large pine weevil and/or predisposed/susceptible to attack by or from large pine weevils and locating a trap around or within a site containing the tree sapling, such that the trap catches large pine weevils repelled by the neem repellent agent from the tree sapling. A plant pest control kit comprising: a trap; and a pest repellent comprising a neem formulation.

Description

WEEVIL TRAP

FIELD

This disclosure provides a trap, trap apparatus and a trapping system for trapping pests, including insect pests and bark-eating insects such as, for example, weevils (in particular Hylobius abietis (the large pine weevil)). In particular, the disclosure relates to the trapping and control of pests in a forestry environment. The disclosure further provides a method of controlling pests, including insect pests and bark-eating insects such as, for example, weevils (in particular Hylobius abietis (the large pine weevil)). The disclosure further provides a pest control kit.

BACKGROUND

Hylobius abietis (large pine weevil) is a beetle that feeds on the bark of young coniferous trees, e.g. seedlings and saplings. These weevils can do significant damage by eating bark from the developing trunk of a sapling. If bark is eaten from at least 30% of the diameter of the sapling then this cuts the flow of nutrients up the plant and it is likely to die. In any one sapling plantation, a large pine weevil infection may result in about a significant proportion, for example 75% to 100%, of the saplings being attacked and destroyed resulting in a requirement for expensive inter-planting or re-planting.

Many of the trees favoured by pine weevils are those which are grown for commercial forestation, for example Scots Pine and Sitka Spruce. Thus, Pine Weevils are considered a pest in the forestry industry. Other weevils are also known to cause damage to trees, for example Hylastes ater (the black pine bark beetle) and Otiorhynchus sigularis (the clay coloured weevil).

Insecticides are commonly used to try to protect young forest trees from weevils. In some settings, physical barriers around young trees may be used, but with limited efficacy.

An objective of this disclosure is to reduce the feeding / bark eating damage by weevils, in particular pine weevils, to newly planted/young forest trees. SUMMARY

In a first aspect there is provided a trap for trapping pests, the trap comprising: a chamber defined by a chamber wall and having an opening in the chamber wall for receiving pests into the chamber, and a protruding wall mounted on the chamber wall inside the chamber.

It should be noted that throughout this specification, the term “comprising” is used to denote that the disclosed embodiments and teachings “comprise” the noted features and as such, may also include other features. However, the term “comprising” may also encompass embodiments and teachings which “consist essentially of” the relevant features or “consist of” the relevant features.

The trap of this disclosure may be used (or is for use) in treating and/or controlling pest infections in plants. The plants may be plants which are under attack by or from, a specific (target) pest and/or any plants which are vulnerable, susceptible and/or predisposed to attack from or by, a specific target pest.

The plant may be a tree.

The plant may be a tree sapling.

The plant may be a Scots Pine, a Sitka Spruce or a sapling thereof.

The term ‘pest’ as used herein embraces insect pests, bark-eating insects and in particular, weevils. The term ‘pest’ may embrace Hylobius abietis (the large pine weevil), the black pine bark beetle (Hylastes ater) and the Clay coloured weevil (Otiorhynchus sigularis). As such, the disclosed traps are for trapping insect pests, bark-eating insect and/or weevils (including Hylobius abietis (the large pine weevil) and/or the Clay coloured weevil (Otiorhynchus sigularis)) and/or the black pine bark beetle (Hylastes ater).

Beneficially, the trap may provide a simple, safe and practical means for controlling pests with limited human intervention. In particular, the trap may optimise the catching, retaining (for recording purposes) and killing of pests. Further, the trap may be passive and environmentally benign. The trap may be configured such that, in use, the opening is above a lowermost portion of the chamber. The position of the opening, in use, may permit pests (e.g. weevils) to fall into the chamber via the opening. Preferably, the trap may be configured such that, in use, the opening is at or proximal an uppermost portion of the chamber. The position of the opening in use may increase the likelihood of pests (e.g. weevils) falling into the chamber via the opening.

The protruding wall may be positioned on the chamber wall such that, in use, at least a portion of the protruding wall extends into the chamber along a plane normal to the gravitational field, e.g. at least a portion of the protruding wall may be horizontal in use. The portion of the protruding wall that is horizontal in use may comprise a terminal end of the protruding wall. Put another way, the protruding wall may comprise a terminal end portion defined, in use, by a first horizontal surface of the wall and a second horizontal surface of the wall. Pests (including, for example weevils) may be unable to pass around the protruding wall. In particular, pests (including weevils) may be unable to pass around the terminal end of the protruding wall between the first surface and the second surface of a protruding wall portion extending horizontally in use. Beneficially, pests (including weevils) may be prevented from crawling out of the trap by the protruding wall.

The chamber wall may comprise a nominal bottom portion. The bottom portion may be an end portion of the chamber wall. The bottom portion may be positioned lowermost in use. The bottom portion may extend normal to the gravitational field in use, e.g. the bottom portion may be horizontal in use.

The chamber wall may comprise a nominal top portion. The top portion may be an end portion of the chamber wall. The top portion may be opposite the bottom portion. The top portion may be positioned uppermost in use. The top portion may extend normal to the gravitational field in use, e.g. the top portion may be horizontal in use.

The opening may be formed in, or defined by, the top portion of the chamber wall. The opening may be circular.

The chamber wall may comprise a side portion. The side portion may extend between the bottom portion and the top portion of the chamber. The side portion may join the bottom portion and the top portion. The side portion may be generally tubular. The side portion may be generally annular. The side portion may extend parallel to the gravitational field in use, e.g. the side portion may be vertical in use. At least a portion of the protruding wall may be normal to the side portion. Alternatively, the side portion may extend at an oblique angle relative to the gravitational field in use, e.g. the side portion may extend at an angle between horizontal and vertical in use.

The bottom portion of the chamber wall and the side portion of the chamber wall may collectively form a bucket. The bucket may, at least partially, define the chamber. The top portion of the chamber wall may form a lid for the bucket. The lid may, at least partially, define the chamber. The bucket and the lid may collectively define the chamber.

The opening may be in the side portion. In use, the opening in the side portion may be proximal the uppermost end of the chamber. The opening in the side portion may be closer to the top portion than to the bottom portion. The opening in the side portion may be proximal the top portion. The opening in the side portion may be adjacent the top portion.

The chamber wall may define a crawl path for the pest (e.g. a weevil) within the chamber. The crawl path may extend between the bottom portion and the opening. The protruding wall may be positioned on the chamber wall between the bottom portion and the opening. The protruding wall may be annular. The protruding wall may intersect, and therefore interrupt, the crawl path. The protruding wall may form a complete break in the crawl path, e.g. there may be no route for a pest (e.g. a weevil) between the bottom portion and the opening except via the protruding wall. The protruding wall may provide a maze arrangement to prevent passage of a pest (e.g. a weevil) along the crawl path.

The protruding wall may have a width. The protruding wall may have a protrusion length, e.g. the length of the portion of the protruding wall that is normal to the gravitational field in use. The width of the protruding wall may be small compared to the protrusion length of the protruding wall.

A terminal end portion of the protruding wall may be defined by a first surface and a second surface. The first surface and the second surface may be back-to-back. The distance between the first surface and the second surface may correspond to the width of the protruding wall. The first surface may be reached along the crawl path before the second surface. The first surface may face the top portion of the chamber wall. The second surface may face the bottom portion of the chamber wall. In use, the first surface may be above the second surface. In use, the first surface may face upward. In use, the second surface may face downward. Beneficially, pests (e.g. weevils) may be particularly prevented from progressing along the crawl path due to the difficulty of passing from an upward facing surface to a downward facing surface, via a terminal end of the protruding wall, in the presence of gravity.

The protruding wall may protrude from the side portion of the chamber wall.

The protruding wall may protrude from the top portion of the chamber wall.

The protruding wall may protrude from the opening, e.g. from the edge of the opening.

The protruding wall may comprise a portion that extends parallel to the gravitational field in use, e.g. a portion that is vertical in use. The protruding wall may comprise a portion that extends at an oblique angle to the gravitational field in use. The protruding wall may comprise a portion that extends at an angle between horizontal and vertical in use.

The chamber wall may be formed as a single piece. Alternatively, one or more portion(s) of the chamber wall may be formed as a separate piece and connected to one or more other portion(s) of the chamber wall.

The protruding wall may be integral with at least a portion of the chamber wall. Alternatively, the protruding wall may be formed a separate piece to the chamber wall. The protruding wall may be an insert. The protruding wall may be connected to the chamber wall, e.g. releasably connected to the chamber wall. The protruding wall may be fixed to the chamber wall, e.g. permanently fixed to the chamber wall.

The trap may be a pitfall trap.

The trap may further comprise a cover arrangement. In use, the cover arrangement may sit above the chamber to cover the chamber, and in particular cover the opening. The cover arrangement may comprise a roof. The roof may cover, e.g. be positioned above, the opening in use. The roof may be aligned with and spaced apart from the top portion of the chamber wall. The cover arrangement may comprise a plurality of supports. The supports may extend between the top portion of the chamber wall and the roof. The supports may support the roof relative to the top portion of the chamber wall. The supports may support the roof above the opening in use. The roof and the supports may be integrally formed. The roof and/or the supports may be integrally formed with the chamber. The roof may minimise the effects of weather on the trap. For example, the roof may prevent rainfall or snowfall from entering the chamber and flooding the trap; and the roof may prevent sunshine from degrading a lure and/or bait within the trap.

The opening may be circular. The opening may have a diameter between 40mm and 100mm.

The cover arrangement may further comprise a cover plate. The cover plate may be positioned between the top portion of the chamber and the roof. The cover plate may be configured to fit in the opening to close the opening, for example, when the trap is not in use for catching pine weevils but is in location in a plantation. The cover plate may be configured to sit above the opening when the trap is in use, for example, to catch pine weevils. The cover plate may be supported above the opening by spacers. The cover plate may be aligned with and spaced apart from the top portion of the chamber wall by the spacers. The spacers may sit between the top portion of the chamber wall and the cover plate. The spacers may support the cover plate relative to the top portion of the chamber wall. The spacers may support the cover plate above the opening in use. The spacers may support the cover plate at a height between 3 mm and 10 mm above the opening. The spacers may support the cover plate at a height between 4 mm and 6 mm above the opening. In use, the top portion of the chamber wall and/or the opening may be aligned with a ground surface. In use, the cover arrangement may be positioned above the ground surface. In particular, the cover plate may be positioned above the ground surface in use. Beneficially, the cover plate may reduce unwanted ‘by-catch’ of creatures (e.g. larger insects, beetles, mammals, etc.) other than the specific target pest (e.g. the target weevil). Pine weevil may have a maximum height of around 4mm. Common black beetle may have a height of around 6mm. The cover plate positioned above the opening by the spacers may permit entry into the trap of pine weevil and prevent entry into the trap of, for example, common black beetle.

The cover plate may be configured, e.g. shaped and sized to fit between the supports of the cover arrangement. The cover plate may comprise two planar portions. The two planar portions may be axially coupled. The planar portions may be disc portions. A first planar portion may be configured, e.g. shaped and sized, to fit in the opening to close the opening. The first planar portion, in the form of a disc portion, may have a diameter slightly smaller, e.g. 2mm smaller, than the diameter of the opening. The first planar portion, in the form of a disc portion may have a diameter between 38mm and 98mm. A second planar portion may be configured, e.g. shaped and size, to cover the opening. The second planar portion may be larger than the opening. The second planar portion, in the form of a disc portion, may have a diameter of between 60mm and 125mm.

The trap may be formed, at least in part, of plastic including biodegradable plastic. The trap may be formed, at least in part, or wholly, of biodegradable material. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the trap may be effective for a limited period of about 1-3 years - or for a period of time commensurate with the period when the relevant plants (for example saplings) are most vulnerable; again, in the case of a tree sapling, this may be a period of about 1-3 years. After this period, a trap of this disclosure may degrade such that at the point of harvesting timber grown from the saplings (potentially 20-30 years after the saplings were planted), the trap has degraded and the timber need only be harvested (i.e. there may be no need to remove the traps after installation or to visit the site at any point after installation, to remove the traps).

In a second aspect there is provided an apparatus for a pest/weevil trap comprising a bucket defining a chamber, the apparatus comprising: a lid for the bucket, the lid comprising an opening; and a protruding wall extending from the lid, the protruding wall configured to protrude into the chamber.

The protruding wall may circumscribe the opening. The protruding wall may protrude from the edge of the opening. The protruding wall may be annular. The protruding wall may be integrally formed with the lid. The protruding wall may provide a maze arrangement to inhibit pests/weevils from exiting the bucket.

The protruding wall may comprise a first portion extending from the lid. The first portion may extend transverse to the lid and/or the opening. The first portion may be configured to extend generally vertically in use. The protruding wall may comprise a second portion extending from the first portion. The second portion may extend outward from the first portion, e.g. away from the opening or towards an outer edge of the lid. The second portion may extend parallel to the lid and/or the opening. The second portion may extend generally horizontally in use. The second portion may be a terminal end portion of the protruding wall. The second portion may comprise a terminal end of the protruding wall. The second portion may extend from an end of the first portion distal an end of the first portion connected to the lid. The second portion may extend outward from the first portion. Pests (including weevils) may be unable to crawl around at least the second portion of the protruding wall to reach the opening.

The apparatus may further comprise a cover arrangement. In use, the cover arrangement may sit above the lid, and in particular cover the opening.

The cover arrangement may comprise a roof. The roof may cover, e.g. be positioned above, the opening in use. The roof may be aligned with and spaced apart from the lid. The cover arrangement may comprise a plurality of supports. The supports may extend between the lid and the roof. The supports may support the roof relative to the lid. The supports may support the roof above the opening in use. The roof and the supports may be integrally formed. The roof and/or the supports may be integrally formed with the lid. The roof may minimise the effects of weather on the trap. For example, the roof may prevent rainfall or snowfall from entering the chamber and flooding the trap; and the roof may prevent sunshine from degrading a lure and/or bait within the trap.

The cover arrangement may further comprise a cover plate. The cover plate may be positioned between the lid and the roof. The cover plate may be configured to fit in the opening to close the opening, for example, when the apparatus is not in use for catching pine weevils but is in location in a plantation. The cover plate may be configured to sit above the opening when the apparatus is in use, for example, to catch pine weevils. The cover plate may be supported above the opening by spacers. The cover plate may be aligned with and spaced apart from the lid by the spacers. The spacers may sit between the lid and the cover plate. The spacers may support the cover plate relative to the lid. The spacers may support the cover plate above the opening in use. The spacers may support the cover plate at a height between 3 mm and 10 mm above the opening. The spacers may support the cover plate at a height between 4 mm and 6 mm above the opening. In use, the lid and/or the opening may be aligned with a ground surface. In use, the cover arrangement may be positioned above the ground surface. In particular, the cover plate may be positioned above the ground surface in use. Beneficially, the cover plate may reduce unwanted ‘by-catch’ of creatures (e.g. larger insects, beetles, mammals, etc.) other than the specific target pest (e.g. the target weevil). Pine weevil may have a maximum height of around 4mm. Common black beetle may have a height of around 6mm. The cover plate positioned above the opening by the spacers may permit entry into the trap of pine weevil and prevent entry into the trap of, for example, common black beetle.

Multiple traps may be used to protect one or more trees. In one teaching, a suitable number of traps may be placed around a site in order to protect all or some of the trees within that site. For example, a trap of this disclosure may (in use) be located: i. on the perimeter of the site (containing trees to be protected). In this way (and without wishing to be bound by theory) the traps may capture weevils entering the site;

II. in a grid or other pattern on or within the site - for example, the trap(s) may be interspersed with the planting; and/or ill. proximal to the plant(s), e.g. young tree(s), to be protected. For example, a trap may be located within 0.5m of a plant or plants to be protected.

The trapping system may comprise a lure. The lure may be configured to be located in the chamber of the trap. The lure may ‘pull’ a specific target pest (for example a weevil (e.g. the large pine weevil)) towards the lure and therefore into the trap. The lure may comprise volatiles. The lure may comprise ethanol and turpentine, preferably in a 1 :1 mixture. The lure may comprise 10ml of 100% ethanol and turpentine, preferably in a 1 :1 mixture.

The lure may comprise a bait. The bait may be in the form of wood pellets. In one teaching, useful wood pellets may be derived from wood flour.

The lure may include pheromones that attract weevils.

The bait may be toxic to the pest. The bait may be non-toxic to the saplings, the environment and/or humans. The toxic bait may comprise a bacterial pesticide. The toxic bait may comprise 15g of wood pellets. The toxic bait may comprise coarse wood flour, fine wood flour, protein, binding agent, sucrose, and an insecticide such as spinosad. The protein may be casein. The binding agent may be methyl cellulose.

Alternatively, the bait may be non-toxic, in which case the trapping system may be environmentally benign. The non-toxic bait may comprise a neem-based compound and/or Metarhizium anisopliae.

The lure and/or bait may comprise a compound or compounds obtainable from a plant belonging to the genus Azadirachta. For example, the lure and/or bait may comprise an extract of a plant belonging to the genus Azadirachta. The lure and/or bait may be obtainable or extracted from Azadirachta indica - a tree commonly known as the “Neem” tree. The agent may be obtainable or extracted from any part of the plant including, for example the leaves, stems, bark, fruit and/or seeds thereof.

Beneficially, the repellent and/or the lure increase the likelihood of weevils falling into the chamber of the trap, from which their exit is inhibited by the maze arrangement provided by the protruding wall within the chamber.

In a third aspect there is provided a trapping system for trapping or controlling pests (including any of the insect pests/weevils describe herein), the system comprising a trap according to any preceding aspect or embodiment. A trapping system of this disclosure may further comprise a repellent for the pest (a ‘pest repellent’).

Without wishing to be bound by theory, a trapping system according to this disclosure operates as per a push-pull concept. In this regard, the repellent of the system may serve as the ‘push’ element to ‘push’ the pest away from the plant. The trap may serve as the ‘pull’ element of the system, the trap pulling the pest away from the plant and into the trap where the pest is retained so that it cannot further attack the plant.

In view of the above, a trapping system of this disclosure may be described or referred to as a ‘push-pull’ system. Indeed, the inventors have discovered that a system which comprises a push (e.g. repellent) component in combination with a pull (e.g. trap) component is very effective at treating and/or preventing, pest attacks/infestations in/on plants, including for example, pine weevil infestations in tree saplings.

The push and pull components of the disclosed push-pull system can be used in combination, or separately, and/or at different times of pest (e.g. beetle/weevil) activity.

As stated, the push component may comprise a repellent which may be applied as a treatment or pre-treatment to a plant being attacked by a pest or a plant which is at risk or susceptible to attack by a pest. Application or administration of the push component to a plant (for example a tree sapling) may comprise applying or administering a coating, composition and/or mixture comprising the appropriate repellent to the target plant (or tree sapling) so as to deter pest feeding and, for example, consequent bark damage.

The push component may additionally or alternatively be applied and or re-applied (as a top-up) to the plant after planting.

The push component may be formulated so as to provide a slow or controlled release of a repellent. For example, a repellent of the push component may be encapsulated or formulated with a wax, oil or other suitable substrate/excipient such that the release of the repellent is slowed/controlled. In this way the release of a push component of the disclosed push/pull system may be controlled and/or regulated such that the plant(s) (tree(s) or tree sapling(s) are protected for a suitable (for example a sustained) period of time. The release of any push component (for example a repellent) may be controlled and/or timed to occur over a period of days, weeks, months or years (for example 1 , 2 or 3 years). The push component may be formulated to ensure that the release delivers a continual pest repellent dose of the push component.

The pull component comprises a trap as disclosed herein. The trap may optionally comprise a lure and/or bait attractive to the pest (again as described herein). The pest (for example the weevil) is drawn into the trap, from which they are unable to escape. The traps are highly effective at attracting and trapping pine weevils.

One of skill will understand that the composition of the lure and/or bait (for use in the disclosed system) may vary depending on the specific pest to be controlled/eradicated.

The pull component (for example the trap) may (in use) be located or placed proximal to the plant to be protected. The trap may be located or placed (in use) at the base of the plant to be protected. The trap may be located within 0.5m of the plants to be protected.

The plant to be protected may be, for example, a Scots Pine or a Sitka Spruce (or a sapling thereof).

One of skill will understand that the choice of repellent (for use in the disclosed system) may vary depending on the specific pest to be controlled/eradicated. The repellent should be effective at repelling the target pest from the plant.

For example, the repellent (i.e. the push element) may comprise a suitable antifeedant.

The repellent may comprise a compound or compounds obtainable from a plant belonging to the genus Azadirachta. For example, the repellent may comprise an extract of a plant belonging to the genus Azadirachta. The repellent may be obtainable or extracted from Azadirachta indica - a tree commonly known as the “Neem” tree. The agent may be obtainable or extracted from any part of the plant including, for example the leaves, stems, bark, fruit and/or seeds thereof.

Extracts (compositions and agents for example) obtained or obtainable from the Neem tree may comprise a range of complex terpenoid compounds (tetranortripenoids or limonoids). The most potent of the many terpenoids are a group of compounds called the azadirachtinoids. Accordingly, a trap system of this disclosure may comprise one or more azadirachtinoids.

A repellent for use in a trapping system of this disclosure may comprise the tetranortriterpenoid compound, azadirachtin. “Azadirachtin” is the collective term applied to a large group of insecticidally-active limonoids. One of the azadirachtins (namely azadirachtin A) may otherwise be known as dimethyl [2a/?- [2aa,3B,4B(1a/?*,2S*,3aS*,6aS*,7S*,7aS*),4aR>,5a, 7aS*,8B(E),10B,10aa,10bB]]-10-

(acetyloxy)octahydro-3,5-dihydroxy-4-methyl-8-[(2-methyl-1-oxo-2-butenyl)oxy]-4- (3a,6a,7,7a)-tetrahydro-6a-hydroxy-7a-methyl-2,7-methanofuro[2,3-b]oxireno[e]oxepin- 1 a(2/-/)-yl)-1 /-/,7/-/-naphtho-[1 ,8-bc:4,4a-c“]difuran-5,10a(8/-/)-dicarboxylate.

Azadirachtin A (Azadirachtin A) is the most abundant of a group of the azadirachtinoid congeners. Azadirachtin A makes up about 80% of the azadirachtinoids in the neem seed kernels. The structural formula of azadirachtin A is:

It should be noted that the term “azadirachtin” as used herein is intended to encompass not only all naturally occurring variants or derivatives of azadirachtin (for example, including but not limited to azadirachtins A, B, D, E, F, G, H, I, K) but also all synthetic variants, fragments, analogues and/or derivatives. In this regard, one of skill will appreciate that any azadirachtin variants, fragments, derivatives and/or analogues for use in a trap system of this disclosure should be functional, that is to say it should exhibit at least one (weevil) repellent or antifeedant property. In addition to being obtainable from a plant belonging to the genus Azadirachta, Azadirachtin may be synthetically produced using, for example, the method of Veitch et al, 2007 (Synthesis of azadirachtin: a long but successful journey: Agnew. Chem. Int. Ed. Engl. 46(40): 7629-32: see also Sanderson, 2007: Chemists synthesize a natural born killer”: Nature 448 (7154): 630-1 ). Suitable azadirachtin fragments (i.e. fragments which are functional) may be found in “The effects of phytochemical pesticides on the growth of cultured invertebrate and vertebrate cells”; Salezadeh A., Jabbar, A., Jennens, L, Ley, S.V. Annadurai, R, Adams, R., Strang, R.H.C. Pest Manag. Sci 58, 268-276, (2002) and “Effect of azadirachtin-derived decalin (perhydronaphthalene) and dihydrofuranacetal (furo(2,3-b)pyran) fragments on the feeding behaviour of S. littoralis”; Pest. Sci. 40, 169-173 (1994). The contents of all of these documents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

It may also be possible to produce azadirachtin using recombinant technology and/or cell culture techniques. For example, cells derived from plants belonging to the genus Azadirachta may be cultured under conditions in which they express azadirachtins.

Alternatively, azadirachtin (for use in a trapping system of this disclosure) may be extracted from Azadirachta indica (for example from one or more of the leaves, stems, bark, fruit and/or seeds) by one or more extraction processes. Suitable methods of extraction will be known to those skilled in the field and may include, for example, techniques which exploit mechanical pressing of neem seeds (kernels) and the use of non-polar solvents. Additionally or alternatively, solvent extraction techniques exploiting, for example, alcohol and those described in US4556562 and US5695763 (derived from WO9216109 and including EP0579624) (the contents of all of these documents is incorporated herein by reference in their entirely) may be exploited as a means to produce “azadirachtin-rich” agents for use as repellents in a trapping system of this disclosure.

In one teaching azadirachtin may be effectively recovered from the seeds of the neem tree by crushing the seeds, extracting azadirachtin from the crushed seeds with water and then either extracting azadirachtin from the water using a non-aqueous solvent which is not miscible with water and has a higher solubility of azadirachtin than water or a surfactant having a turbidity temperature between 20°C and 80°C. The concentrated azadirachtin is easily recovered from the second extraction solution and shows high activity as an insecticide. Extraction methods employing polar solvents (e.g. water) lead to extracts that are rich in polar components.

A repellent for use in a trapping system of this disclosure (for example as a push component) may comprise NeemAzal® and/or NeemAzal® Technical. It should be understood hereinafter that the term “NeemAzal®” refers to any formulations comprising NeemAzal®, including NeemAzal® Technical.

NeemAzal® is sold for primary use in plant insect control. The use of NeemAzal® in or on plants leads to feeding inhibition in insect pests. NeemAzal® has also been shown to inhibit insect moulting, reduce fecundity and breeding ability. NeemAzal® may be prepared from neem kernels using the aqueous extraction process of US5695763. The NeemAzal® (plant protection) formulation may comprise a naturally based neem extract, plant oil and a surfactant.

NeemAzal® Technical is an extract of neem seeds made with polar solvents, greatly enriched in azadirachtin A. It is a much more stable extract than, for example, neem oil or other neem oil-based extracts. NeemAzal® Technical may contain 35±2 % (35 OOOppm) azadirachtin A. Other minor azadirachtinoids make up a further 32% of the weight. The remainder may be composed of small amounts of other terpenoids (salannin (3-5%) and nimbin (3-5%)), without biological activity, along with some protein and polysaccharide.

The composition of NeemAzal® Technical may comprise (% w/w):

Azadirachtin A 34

Azadirachtin B approx. 5.5

Azadirachtin D approx. 2.1

Azadirachtin E < 1

Azadirachtin F < 1

Azadirachtin G < 1

Azadirachtin H approx. 2.3

Azadirachtin I approx. 0.8

Azadirachtin K and other Azadirachtins < 2

Azadirachtinin approx. 2

Sum of Azadirachtins: 51.7 % NeemAzal® formulations for use in trapping systems of this disclosure may comprise dilutions of NeemAzal® Technical.

A suitable formulation for use as a push component in a trapping system of this disclosure may be sold under the name Riddance®. Riddance® comprises azadirachtin.

For convenience, the various repellent compounds obtainable from a plant belonging to the genus Azadirachta (as described herein and above) shall be collectively referred to as Neem repellent products.

A repellent for use in a trapping system of this disclosure may comprise a composition which itself comprises any of the Neem repellent products described herein and above.

In a further aspect, the disclosure provides a method of controlling a plant pest, said method comprising applying a pest repellent to a plant and locating a trap proximal to the plant, such that the trap catches the repelled pests.

The method may be for controlling large pine weevils.

The method may comprise use of a repellent which comprises one or more repellents selected from the group consisting of an antifeedant; a compound or compounds obtainable from a plant belonging to the genus Azadirachta; an extract of a plant belonging to the genus Azadirachta; a repellent obtainable or extracted from Azadirachta indica; an azadirachtinoid; azadirachtin; and azadirachtin A.

The method may comprise the use of a trap which further comprises a lure for the pest - for example a lure for the large pine weevil. The lure may be contained within the trap.

The plant may be any plant which is at risk of or susceptible to attack from or by the pest. The plant may be a tree sapling. The plant may be a Scots Pine or a Sitka Spruce.

The trap may be located on the perimeter of a site containing trees to be protected. The trap may be located proximal to the plant, e.g. young tree, to be protected. For example, the trap may be located within 0.5m of a plant or plants to be protected. A plurality of traps may be positioned in a grid or other pattern on or within the site - for example, the trap(s) may be interspersed with the planting.

In one teaching, the disclosure provides a method of controlling or preventing large pine weevil attacks on tree saplings, said method comprising applying any of the disclosed neem repellent agent(s) to a plant being attacked by a large pine weevil and/or predisposed/susceptible to attack by or from large pine weevils and locating a trap proximal to the plant, such that the trap catches large pine weevils repelled from the plant.

In a further aspect, the disclosure provides a plant pest control kit comprising a trap, and a pest repellent comprising a neem formulation.

The pest repellent may be in a form to be applied to a plant to be protected from a pest.

The trap may be a pitfall trap. The trap may be a trap as described in the first aspect.

The kit may further comprise a lure. The lure may comprise a bait. The bait may be toxic or non-toxic, as described herein.

It should be noted that while the disclosed traps may find particular application as traps for Hylobius abietis (the large pine weevil), the aforementioned traps and trapping system may also be configured to trap other pests, including, for example, Hylastes ater (black pine bark beetle), Otiorhynchus sigularis (clay coloured weevil), and Dendroctonus micans (great spruce bark beetle)

The above summary is intended to be merely exemplary and non-limiting. It should be understood that features defined in accordance with any aspect of the present disclosure or relating to any specific embodiment of the disclosure may be utilized, either alone or in combination with any other defined feature, in any other aspect or embodiment or to form a further aspect or embodiment of the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a trap (for example a weevil) trap;

Figure 2a shows a top perspective view of a lid of the (weevil) trap of Figure 1 ;

Figure 2b shows a bottom perspective view of the lid of Figure 2a;

Figures 3a to 3k show schematic cross sectional views of alternative (weevil) traps;

Figures 4a and 4b show schematic cross sectional views of an alternative cover arrangement in a closed configuration and a by-catch prevention configuration.

Figure 5 shows a schematic of a trapping system.

Figure 6 provides an HPLC chart of an exemplary push component (a Neem repellent product: a formulation comprising: 1.7 mg/ml Azadiractin A; 2.5 mg/ml Azadirachtin D-H and Nimbin and salannin at 44 x 10³ mAU²/20ul)

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figure 1 shows a trap 10 for trapping weevils, in particular pine weevils. The trap 10 comprises a bucket 12 and a lid 14.

The bucket 12 is formed of a side wall portion 16 and a nominal bottom wall portion 18 which define a chamber therein. The side wall portion 16 and the bottom wall portion 18 are integrally formed. The bucket 12 is formed of plastic. In use, the bottom wall portion 18 extends generally horizontally, e.g. transverse to the gravitational field. The side wall portion 16 extends from the bottom wall portion 18 at an obtuse angle. In alternative traps, the side wall portion may extend transverse to the bottom wall portion, or at an acute angle to the bottom wall portion.

The lid 14 comprises a nominal top wall portion 20 further defining the chamber when assembled with the bucket 12. When the lid 14 is assembled with the bucket 12, the top wall portion 20 is generally parallel to the bottom wall portion 18. The side wall portion 16 and the top wall portion 20 define an acute angle therebetween. In use, the top wall portion 20 extends generally horizontally, e.g. transverse to the gravitational field.

The lid 14 further comprises a cover arrangement 30. The cover arrangement 30 comprises a cover plate 32 and a plurality of supports 34. The cover plate 32 is generally parallel to, and spaced apart from, the top wall portion 20. The plurality of supports 34 extend between the top wall portion 20 and the cover plate 32 to support the cover plate 32 relative to the top wall portion 20. In use, the cover plate 32 covers, e.g. is positioned above, the top wall portion 20. The cover arrangement 30 is integrally formed with the top wall portion 20.

As shown in Figures 2a, the top wall portion 20 of the lid 14 comprises an opening 22. The opening 22 allows weevils to fall into the trap. In use, the cover plate 32 covers, e.g. is positioned above, the opening 22. The cover plate 32 prevents rainfall from entering the opening and flooding the chamber. Furthermore, the cover arrangement 30 reduces the likelihood of unwanted creatures entering the trap 10, in particular creatures that are larger than the desired weevils. The length of the supports 34 determines the creatures that can and cannot enter the trap 10, dependent on the size of the creature.

As shown in Figures 2a and 2b, the lid 14 further comprises a protruding wall 24. The protruding wall 24 circumscribes the opening 22. The protruding wall 24 is annular. The protruding wall 24 extends from the top wall portion 20 into the chamber. In particular, the protruding wall 24 extends from the edge of the opening 22 in to the chamber. The protruding wall 24 comprises a first portion 24a. The first portion 24a is connected to the top wall portion 20 at a first end of the first portion 24a. The first portion 24a extends transverse to the top wall portion 20. The first portion 24a extends vertically in use. The first portion 42a is generally tubular. The protruding wall 24 further comprises a second portion 24b. The second portion 24b extends from the first portion 24a. In particular, the second portion 24b extends from a second end of the first portion 24a distal the first end of the first portion 24a. The second portion 24b circumscribes the first portion 24a. The second portion 24b extends transverse to the first portion 24a. The second portion 24b is arranged to extend transverse to the gravitational field, e.g. horizontal, in use. The second portion 24b extends outwards from the first portion 24a. The second portion 24b is generally arranged as a flange on the tubular first portion 24a. The second portion 24b comprises a terminal end 26 of the protruding wall 24. As such, the second portion 24b is a terminal end portion of the protruding wall 24. The second portion 24b comprises a first surface 25a (see Figure 2a) and a second surface 25b (see Figure 2b). The first surface 25a and the second surface 25b are back-to-back. The first surface 25a faces the top wall portion 20. In use, the first surface 25a faces upward and the second surface 25b faces downward.

The inside of the chamber (defined by the bucket 12 and the lid 14) defines a crawl path (not shown) for weevils that fall into the bucket 12 via the opening 22. The crawl path extends from the bottom wall portion 18 to the opening 22. The protruding wall 24 intersects and therefore interrupts the crawl path. The protruding wall 24 provides a maze arrangement that reduces the likelihood of weevils reaching the opening 22. In particular, weevils are unable to pass from the upward facing first surface 25a of the second portion 24b of the protruding wall 24, around the terminal end 26 of the protruding wall 24, to the downward facing second surface 25b of the second portion 24b of the protruding wall 24.

Figures 1 , 2a and 2b provide an example of a weevil trap having a protruding wall within a chamber, to provide a maze arrangement for reducing the likelihood of weevils exiting the trap. Numerous alternative forms of weevil trap having a protruding wall within a chamber can also provide a maze arrangement for reducing the likelihood of weevils exiting the trap. Some examples of these alternative forms are schematically shown in Figures 3a to 3k.

Figure 3a provides a weevil trap 110a having an opening 122a in a top wall portion 120a of a chamber wall defining a chamber. The weevil trap 110a comprises a protruding wall 124a extending from a side wall portion 116a of the chamber wall. The protruding wall 124a interrupts a crawl path between a bottom wall portion 118a of the chamber wall and the opening 122a. The protruding wall 124a comprises a first portion 124aa arranged to extend from the side wall portion 116a into the chamber. The first portion 124aa is arranged to extend generally horizontally in use. The protruding wall 124a comprises a second portion 124ab extending from the first portion 124aa towards the bottom wall portion 118a of the chamber. The second portion 124ab is arranged to extend generally vertically downward from the first portion 124aa in use. The second portion 124ab extends from an end of the first portion 124aa distal an end of the first portion 124aa connected to the side wall portion 116a. The protruding wall 124a comprises a third portion 124ac extending from the second portion124ab towards the side wall portion 116a of the chamber wall. The third portion 124ac is arranged to extend generally horizontally outward from the second portion 124ab in use. The third portion 124ac extends from an end of the second portion 124ab distal an end of the second portion 124ab connected to the first portion 124aa. The third portion 124ac comprises a terminal end 126a of the protruding wall. As such, the third portion 124ac is a terminal end portion of the protruding wall. The third portion 124ac comprises a first surface. The first surface faces the top wall portion 120a of the chamber wall. The first surface is arranged to face upward in use. The third portion 124ac comprises a second surface. The second surface is back-to-back with the first surface. The second surface faces the bottom wall portion 118a of the chamber wall. The second surface is arranged to face downward in use.

Figure 3b provides a weevil trap 110b having an opening 122b in a top wall portion 120b of a chamber wall defining a chamber. The weevil trap 110b comprises a protruding wall 124b extending from a side wall portion 116b of the chamber wall. The protruding wall 124b interrupts a crawl path between a bottom wall portion 118b of the chamber wall and the opening 122b. The protruding wall 124b comprises a first portion 124ba arranged to extend from the side wall portion 116b of the chamber wall at an oblique angle. The protruding wall 124b comprises a second portion 124bb extending from the first portion 124ba towards the side wall portion 116b of the chamber wall. The second portion 124bb extends from an end of the first portion 124ba distal an end of the first portion 124ba connected to the side wall portion 116b of the chamber wall. The second portion 124bb is arranged to extend generally horizontally outwards from the first portion 124ba in use. The second portion 124bb comprises a terminal end 126b of the protruding wall 124b. As such, there second portion 124bb is a terminal end portion of the protruding wall. The second portion 124bb comprises a first surface. The first surface faces the top wall portion 120b of the chamber wall. The first surface is arranged to face upward in use. The second portion 124bb comprises a second surface. The second surface is back-to- back with the first surface. The second surface faces a bottom wall portion 118b of the chamber wall. The second surface is arranged to face downward in use.

Figure 3c provides a weevil trap 110c having an opening 122c in a side wall portion 116c of a chamber wall defining a chamber. The weevil trap 110c comprises a protruding wall 124c extending from the side wall portion 116c. The protruding wall 124c extends from the side wall portion 116c at a location between a bottom wall portion 118c of the chamber wall and the opening 122c. The protruding wall 124c interrupts a crawl path between the bottom wall portion 118c of the chamber wall and the opening 122c. The protruding wall 124c comprises a first portion 124ca arranged to extend from the side wall portion 116c into the chamber. The first portion 124ca is arranged to extend generally horizontally in use. The protruding wall 124c comprises a second portion 124cb extending from the first portion 124ca towards the bottom wall portion 118c of the chamber. The second portion 124cb is arranged to extend generally vertically downward from the first portion 124ca in use. The second portion 124cb extends from an end of the first portion 124ca distal an end of the first portion 124ca connected to the side wall portion 116c. The protruding wall 124c comprises a third portion 124cc extending from the second portion 124cb towards the side wall portion 116c of the chamber wall. The third portion 124cc is arranged to extend generally horizontally outward from the second portion 124cb in use. The third portion 124cc extends from an end of the second portion 124cb distal an end of the second portion 124cb connected to the first portion 124ca. The third portion 124cc comprises a terminal end 126c of the protruding wall. As such, the third portion 124cc is a terminal end portion of the protruding wall. The third portion 124cc comprises a first surface. The first surface faces a top wall portion 120c of the chamber wall. The first surface is arranged to face upward in use. The third portion 124cc comprises a second surface. The second surface is back-to-back with the first surface. The second surface faces the bottom wall portion 118c of the chamber wall. The second surface is arranged to face downward in use.

Figure 3d provides a weevil trap 110d having an opening 122d in a top wall portion 120d of a chamber wall defining a chamber. The weevil trap 110d comprises a protruding wall 124d extending from the top wall portion 120d. The protruding wall 124d protrudes from the edge of the opening 122d. The protruding wall 124d interrupts a crawl path between a bottom wall portion 118d of the chamber wall and the opening 122d. The protruding wall 124d comprises a first portion 124da extending from the top wall portion 120d towards the bottom wall portion 118d of the chamber wall. The first portion 124da is arranged to extend from the top wall portion 120d generally vertically downward in use. The protruding wall 124d comprises a second portion 124db extending inward from the first portion 124da, e.g. away from a side wall portion 116d of the chamber wall or towards the centre of the opening 122d. The second portion 124db extends generally transverse to the first portion 124da. The second portion 124db is arranged to extend generally horizontally in use. The second portion 124db extends from an end of the first portion 124da distal an end of the first portion 124da connected to the top wall portion 120d of the chamber wall. The second portion 124db comprises a terminal end 126d of the protruding wall 124d. As such, the second portion 124db is a terminal end portion of the protruding wall 124d.

Figure 3e shows a weevil trap 110e having an opening 122e in a top wall portion 120e of a chamber wall defining a chamber. The weevil trap 110e comprises a protruding wall 124e extending from the top wall portion 120e. The protruding wall 124e extends from the top wall portion 120e at a position between the opening 122e and a side wall portion 116e of the chamber wall. The protruding wall 124e interrupts a crawl path between a bottom wall portion 118e of the chamber wall and the opening 122e. The protruding wall 124e comprises a first portion 124ea extending from the top wall portion 120e towards the bottom wall portion 118e of the chamber wall. The first portion 124ea is arranged to extend from the top wall portion 120e generally vertically downward in use. The protruding wall 124e comprises a second portion 124eb extending from the first portion 124ea towards the side wall portion 116e of the chamber wall. The second portion 124eb extends generally transverse to the first portion 124ea. The second portion 124eb is arranged to extend horizontally outwards from the first portion 124ea in use. The second portion 124eb extends from an end of the first portion 124ea distal an end of the fist portion 124ea connected to the top wall portion 120e of the chamber wall. The second portion 124eb comprises a terminal end of the protruding wall 126e. As such, the second portion 124eb is a terminal end portion of the protruding wall 126e. The second portion 124eb comprises a first surface. The first surface faces the top wall portion 120e of the chamber wall. The first surface is arranged to face upward in use. The second portion 124eb comprises a second surface. The second surface is back-to-back with the first surface. The second surface faces the bottom wall portion 118e of the chamber wall. The second surface is arranged to face downward in use.

Figure 3f shows a weevil trap 110f having an opening 122f in a top wall portion 120f of a chamber wall defining a chamber. The weevil trap 110f comprises a protruding wall 124f extending from a side wall portion 116f of the chamber wall into the chamber. The protruding wall 124f interrupts a crawl path between a bottom wall portion 116f of the chamber wall and the opening 122f. The protruding wall 124f extends generally transverse to the side wall portion 116f. The protruding wall 124f is arranged to extend generally horizontally in use. The protruding wall comprises a terminal end 126f within the chamber.

Figure 3g shows a weevil trap 110g having an opening 122g in a side wall portion 116g of a chamber wall defining a chamber. The weevil trap 110g comprises a protruding wall 124g extending from the side wall portion 116g into the chamber. The protruding wall 124g protrudes from the side wall portion 116g at a location between a bottom wall portion 118g of the chamber wall and the opening 122g. The protruding wall 124g interrupts a crawl path between the bottom wall portion 116g of the chamber wall and the opening 122g. The protruding wall 124g extends generally transverse to the side wall portion 116g. The protruding wall 124g is arranged to extend generally horizontally in use. The protruding wall 124g comprises a terminal end 126g within the chamber.

Figure 3h shows a weevil trap 110h having an opening 122h in a top wall portion 120h of a chamber wall defining a chamber. The weevil trap 110h comprises a protruding wall 124h extending from the top wall portion 120h into the chamber. The protruding wall 124h protrudes from the edge of the opening 122h. The protruding wall 124h interrupts a crawl path between a bottom wall portion 118h of the chamber wall and the opening 122h. The protruding wall 124h comprises a first portion 124ha extending towards the bottom wall portion 118h of the chamber wall. The first portion 124ha extends generally transverse to the top wall portion 120h. The first portion 124ha is arranged to extend generally vertically downward in use. The protruding wall 124h comprises a second portion 124hb extending from the first portion 124ha. The second portion 124hb extends generally transverse to the first portion 124ha. The second portion 124hb extends from an end of the first portion 124ha distal an end of the first portion 124ha connected to the top wall portion 120h. The second portion 124hb is arranged to extend generally horizontally in use. The second portion extends both inwards and outwards from the first portion, e.g. away from and towards a side wall portion 116h of the chamber wall or towards and away from the centre of the opening 122h. The second portion 124hb comprises an outer terminal end 126ha and an inner terminal end 126hb. As such, the second portion 124hb is a terminal end portion of the protruding wall 124h The second portion 124hb comprises a first surface. The first surface faces the top wall portion 120h of the chamber wall. The first surface is arranged to face upward in use. The second portion 124hb comprises a second surface. The second surface is back-to-back with the first surface. The second surface faces the bottom wall portion 118h of the chamber wall. The second surface is arranged to face downward in use.

Figure 3i shows a weevil trap 110i having an opening 122i in a top wall portion 120i of a chamber wall defining a chamber. The weevil trap 110i comprises a protruding wall 124i extending from the top wall portion 120i into the chamber. The protruding wall 124i protrudes from the edge of the opening 122i. The protruding wall 124i interrupts a crawl path between a bottom wall portion 118i of the chamber wall and the opening 122 i . The protruding wall 124i comprises a first portion 124ia extending towards the bottom wall portion 118i. The first portion 124ia extends generally transverse to the top wall portion 120i. The first portion 124ia is arranged to extend generally vertically downward in use. The protruding wall 124i comprises a second portion 124ib extending outward, e.g. towards a side wall portion 116i of the chamber wall, from the first portion 124ia. The second portion 124ib extends generally transverse to the first portion 124ia. The second portion 124ib is arranged to extend generally horizontally in use. The second portion 124ib comprises a terminal end 126ia. As such, the second portion 124ib is a terminal end portion of the protruding wall 124i The second portion 124ib extends from the first portion 124ia at a position between the top wall portion 120i of the chamber wall and a terminal end 126ib of the first portion 124ia. The second portion 124ib comprises a first surface. The first surface faces the top wall portion 120i of the chamber wall. The first surface is arranged to face upward in use. The second portion 124ib comprises a second surface. The second surface is back-to-back with the first surface. The second surface faces the bottom wall portion 118i of the chamber wall. The second surface is arranged to face downward in use.

Figure 3j shows a weevil trap 110j having an opening 122j in a top wall portion 120j of a chamber wall defining a chamber. The weevil trap 110j comprises a protruding wall 124j extending from the top wall portion 120j into the chamber. The protruding wall 124j protrudes from the edge of the opening 122j. The protruding wall 124j interrupts a crawl path between a bottom wall portion 118j of the chamber wall and the opening 122j. The protruding wall 124j comprises a first portion 124ja extending from the top wall portion 120 towards the bottom wall portion 118 j of the chamber wall. The first portion 124ja extends generally transverse to the top wall portion 120j. The first portion 124ja is arranged to extend generally vertically downward in use. The protruding wall 124j comprises a second portion 124jb extending inwards, e.g. away from a side wall portion 116j of the chamber wall or towards the centre of the opening 122j, from the first portion 124ja. The second portion 124jb extends generally transverse to the first portion 124ja. The second portion 124jb is arranged to extend generally horizontally in use. The second portion 124jb comprises a terminal end 126ja. As such, the second portion 124jb is a terminal end portion of the protruding wall 124j. The second portion 124jb extends from the first portion 124ja at a position between the top wall portion 120j of the chamber wall and a terminal end 126jb of the first portion 124ja.

Figure 3k shows a weevil trap 110k having an opening 122k in a top wall portion 120k of a chamber wall defining a chamber. The weevil trap 110k comprises a first protruding wall 142k. The first protruding wall 142k extends from a side wall portion 116k of the chamber wall into the chamber. The first protruding wall 142k interrupts a crawl path between a bottom wall portion 116k of the chamber wall and the opening 122k. The first protruding wall 142k extends generally transverse to the side wall portion 116k. The first protruding wall 142k is arranged to extend generally horizontally in use. The first protruding wall 142k comprises a terminal end 126ka within the chamber. The weevil trap 110k comprises a second protruding wall 124k. The second protruding wall 124k extends from the top wall portion 120k into the chamber. The second protruding wall 124k protrudes form the edge of the opening 122k. The second protruding wall 124k interrupts the crawl path at a location between the first protruding wall 142k and the opening 122k. The second protruding wall 124k comprises a first portion 124ka extending from the top wall portion 120k towards the bottom wall portion 118k of the chamber wall. The first portion 124ka is arranged to extend from the top wall portion 120k generally vertically downward in use. The second protruding wall 124k comprises a second portion 124kb extending from the first portion 124ka towards the side wall portion 116k of the chamber wall. The second portion 124kb extends generally transverse to the first portion 124ka. The second portion 124kb is arranged to extend horizontally outwards from the first portion 124ea in use. The second portion 124kb extends from an end of the first portion 124ka distal an end of the fist portion 124ka connected to the top wall portion 120k of the chamber wall. The second portion 124kb comprises a terminal end 126kb of the second protruding wall 124k. As such, the second portion 124kb is a terminal end portion of the protruding wall 124k. The second portion 124kb comprises a first surface. The first surface faces the top wall portion 120k of the chamber wall. The first surface is arranged to face upward in use. The second portion 124kb comprises a second surface. The second surface is back-to-back with the first surface. The second surface faces the bottom wall portion 118k of the chamber wall. The second surface is arranged to face downward in use.

An alternative form of cover arrangement is shown in Figures 4a and 4b. Otherwise the weevil trap 310 generally corresponds to the trap 10 of Figuresl , 2a and 2b. The cover arrangement 330 sits above the chamber to cover the chamber, and in particular cover the opening 322. The cover arrangement comprises a roof 332a. The roof 332a covers, e.g. is positioned above, the opening 322. The roof 332a is aligned with and spaced apart from the top wall portion 320. The cover arrangement 330 further comprises a plurality of supports 334a. The supports 334a extend between the top wall portion 320 and the roof 332a. The supports 334a support the roof 332a relative to the top wall portion 320. The supports 334a support the roof 332a above the opening 322. The roof 332a and the supports 334a are integrally formed with each other. The opening 322 is circular. The opening 322 has a diameter of 100mm. The cover arrangement 330 further comprises a cover plate 332b. The cover plate 332b is positioned between the top wall portion 320 and the roof 332a. The cover plate 332b is configured to fit in the opening 322 to close the opening 322 as shown in Figure 4a, for example, when the trap 310 is not in use for catching pine weevils but is in location in a plantation. The cover plate 332b is configured to sit above the opening 322, as shown in Figure 4b, when the trap 310 is in use, for example, to catch pine weevils. The cover plate 332b is supported above the opening 322 by spacers 334b. The cover plate 332b is aligned with and spaced apart from the top wall portion 320 by the spacers 334b. The spacers 334b sit between the top wall portion 320 and the cover plate 332b. The spacers 334b support the cover plate 332b relative to the top wall portion 320. The spacers 334b support the cover plate 332b above the opening 322. The spacers 334b support the cover plate 332b at a height between 3 mm and 10 mm above the opening 322, preferably at a height between 4 mm and 6 mm above the opening 322. The cover plate 332b is shaped and sized to fit between the supports 334a of the cover arrangement 330. The cover plate 332b comprises two planar portions 333, 335. The two planar portions 333, 335 are axially coupled. Each planar portion 333, 335 has a thickness between 2mm and 3mm, e.g. 2.6mm. The planar portions 333, 335 are disc portions, e.g. each planar portion has a disc shape. A first planar portion 333 is configured, e.g. shaped and sized, to fit in the opening 322 to close the opening 322. The first planar portion 333 has a diameter slightly smaller, e.g. 2mm smaller, than the diameter of the opening 322. The first planar portion 333 has a diameter of 98mm. A second planar portion 335 is configured, e.g. shaped and size, to cover the opening 322. The second planar portion 335 is larger than the opening. The second planar portion335 has a diameter of 125mm.

Figure 5 shows a trapping system 200 for trapping weevils. The trapping system comprises the weevil trap 10 of Figure 1 . In alternative embodiment, the trapping system may comprise any of the weevil traps 110a-k shown in Figures 3a to 3k or 310 shown in Figures 4a and 4b. The trap 10 is positioned such that the bucket 12 is below the surface of the ground G, the top wall portion 20 of the lid 14 is generally aligned with the surface of the ground G, and the cover arrangement 30 of the lid 14 is above the surface of the ground G. This positioning of the trap 10 permits weevils on the surface of the ground G to enter the chamber via the opening 22. The trap 10 is located proximal a plant P that is to be protected from weevils (although the trap is shown as being positioned proximal to the plant P, the precise positioning of the trap may vary depending on the species of tree/plant to be protected, the level of pest infestation, the geography/topography of the site, the planting scheme (including planting density) and the like).

The trapping system 200 further comprises a repellent R applied to the plant P. The repellent R (which may be any of the Neem repellent products described herein) may be applied 15cm above a root collar C of the plant P. The repellent R comprises a neem formulation, e.g. a formulation containing products derived from the seeds of an Indian Neem tree. The neem formulation may comprise a concentration of azadirachtin A of 0.7-1 .7 mg/ml. The neem formulation may comprise or further comprise a concentration of minor azadirachtinoids (D-H) of 0.7-2.5 mg/ml. The neem formulation may comprise, further comprise or additionally comprise a combined concentration of Nimbin and Salannin of 11 x 10³ mAU²/20 pl 44x10³ mAU²/20pl sample. The repellent R further comprises a diluent, for example sunflower oil. The repellent R acts as an anti-feedant to deter weevils from feeding on the plant P and thereby ‘pushing’ weevils away from the plant P. The neem formulation comprises an amount of all the compounds in the oils absorbing in the UV at 216 nm, most of which may be expected to have some antifeedant effect, total 6.6 x10⁵ mAU²/20pl.

The trapping system 200 further comprises a lure L located within the chamber of the trap 10. The lure L ‘pulls’ weevils towards the trap 10. The lure L comprises 10ml of 100% ethanol and turpentine in a 1 :1 mixture. The lure L further comprises a bait B. The bait B is toxic, in particular the bait B is deadly to weevils. The bait B is in the form of wood pellets. The wood pellets comprise course wood flour, fine wood flour (wherein the course and fine flour are used in a ratio of 50:50), casein, methyl cellulose, sucrose, and spinosad. An alternative embodiments, the bait may be non-toxic. The lure L and the maze arrangement provided by the protruding wall 24 within the trap 10 ensure that weevils cannot exit.

It should be understood that features defined in accordance with any aspect of the present disclosure or relating to any specific embodiment of the disclosure may be utilized, either alone or in combination with any other defined feature, in any other aspect or embodiment or to form a further aspect or embodiment of the disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A method of controlling a plant pest, said method comprising applying a pest repellent to a plant to be protected from the plant pest and locating a trap around or within a site containing the plant to be protected, such that the trap catches repelled pests.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method is for controlling large pine weevils.

3. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the repellent comprises one or more repellents selected from the group consisting of:

(i) an antifeedant;

(ii) a compound or compounds obtainable from a plant belonging to the genus Azadirachta;

(iii) an extract of a plant belonging to the genus Azadirachta;

(iv) a repellent obtainable or extracted from Azadirachta indica;

(v) an azadirachtinoid;

(vi) azadirachtin; and

(vii) azadirachtin A.

4. The method of any of one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the trap contains a lure for the pest.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plant is any plant which is at risk of or susceptible to attack from or by the pest.

6. A method of controlling or preventing large pine weevil attacks on tree saplings, said method comprising applying a neem repellent agent to a tree sapling being attacked by a large pine weevil and/or predisposed/susceptible to attack by or from large pine weevils and locating a trap around or within a site containing the tree sapling, such that the trap catches large pine weevils repelled by the neem repellent agent from the tree sapling.

7. A plant pest control kit comprising: a trap; and a pest repellent comprising a neem formulation.

8. The plant pest control kit of claim 7, wherein the pest repellent is in a form to be applied to a plant to be protected from a pest.

9. The plant pest control kit of claim 7 or 8, further comprising a lure.

10. The plant pest control kit of claim 9, wherein the lure comprises a bait, and wherein the bait is toxic or non-toxic.

11. A pest trap comprising: a chamber defined by a chamber wall and having an opening in the chamber wall for receiving pests into the chamber, and a protruding wall mounted on the chamber wall inside the chamber.

12. The trap of claim 11 , wherein the trap is for trapping one or more pest(s) selected from the group consisting of: insect pests weevils

Hylobius abietis (the large pine weevil).

13. The trap according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the chamber wall comprises, nominally, a top portion, a bottom portion, and a side portion extending between the top portion and the bottom portion.

14. The trap according to claim 13, wherein the opening is provided in the top portion, or in the side portion at a position adjacent to or proximal the top portion.

15. The trap according to claim 13 or 14, wherein a crawl path is defined inside the chamber along the chamber wall between the bottom portion and the opening, wherein the crawl path is a path along which a pest can crawl, and wherein the protruding wall intersects or interrupts the crawl path.

16. The trap according to any of claims 13 to 15, wherein the protruding wall extends from the top portion or the side portion.

17. The trap according to any of claims 11 to 16, wherein the protruding wall comprises a terminal end portion, wherein the terminal end portion comprises a terminal end of the protruding wall.

18. The trap according to claim 17, wherein the terminal end portion comprises a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface are back- to-back.

19. The trap according to claim 18, when dependent on claim 13, wherein the first surface faces the top portion and the second surface faces the bottom portion.

20. The trap according to claim 18 or 19, when dependent on claim 15, wherein the first surface is before the second surface in the crawl path.

21 . The trap according to any of claims 11 to 20, wherein the protruding wall forms a maze arrangement.

22. The trap according to any of claims 11 to 21 , wherein the trap is a pitfall trap.

23. The trap according to any of claims 11 to 22, further comprising a cover arrangement configured to cover the opening.

24. Use of a trap according to any one of claims 11 to 23 for treating or preventing a pest attack on a plant.

25. The use of claims 24, wherein the plant is one or more selected from the group consisting of:

(i) a tree;

(ii) a tree sapling;

(iii) Scots Pine; and

(iv) Sitka Spruce

26. The use of claims 24 or 25, wherein the pest is one or more pest(s) selected from the group consisting of: (i) insect pests;

(ii) bark-eating insects

(iii) weevils; and

(iv) Hylobius abietis (the large pine weevil).

27. An apparatus for a trap comprising a bucket defining a chamber, the apparatus comprising: a lid for the bucket, the lid comprising an opening; and a protruding wall extending from the lid, the protruding wall configured to protrude into the chamber.

28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the trap is a weevil trap.

29. The apparatus of claim 27 or 28, wherein the protruding wall circumscribes the opening.

30. The apparatus of any of claims 27 to 29, wherein the protruding wall comprises a first portion extending from the lid.

31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the protruding wall comprises a second portion extending from the first portion.

32. The apparatus of claim 31 , wherein the second portion extends outward from the first portion.

33. The apparatus of claim 31 or 32, wherein the second portion comprises a terminal end of the protruding wall.

34. The apparatus of any of claims 27 to 33, further comprising a cover arrangement configured to cover the opening.

35. A trapping system comprising: the trap according to any of claims 11 to 23 or a trap comprising the apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 34; and a repellent.

36. The trapping system of claim 35, wherein the repellent comprises one or more repellents selected from the group consisting of:

(i) an antifeedant;

(iii) an extract of a plant belonging to the genus Azadirachta;

(iv) a repellent obtainable or extracted from Azadirachta indica;

(v) an azadirachtinoid;

(vi) azadirachtin; and

(vii) azadirachtin A.

37. The trapping system of any one of claims 35 or 36, wherein the repellent is in a form to be applied to a plant to be protected from a pest.

38. The trapping system of any of claims 35 to 37, further comprising a lure.

39. The trapping system of claim 38, wherein the lure comprises a bait, and wherein the bait is toxic or non-toxic.

40. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the trap is a trap according to any of claims 11 to 23 or a trap comprising the apparatus according to any of claims 27