Sampling methods are selected depending on the targeted species or the spatial and temporal requirements of the study. However, most methods for passive sampling of flying insects have poor temporal resolution because it is time consuming, costly and/or logistically difficult. Effective sampling of flying insects attracted to artificial light at night (ALAN) requires sampling at user-defined time points (nighttime only) across well-replicated sites resulting in major time and labor-intensive survey effort or expensive automated technologies. Described here is a low-cost automated intercept trap that requires no specialist equipment or skills to construct and operate, making it a viable option for studies that require temporal sub-sampling across multiple sites. The trap can be used to address a wide range of other ecological questions that require a greater temporal and spatial scale than is feasible with previous trap technology.

DELWP approval (Bat & Insect activity under experimental lighting)- 10009741

Experimental lighting installed at 4 sites across Melbourne (100 Acres, Currawong bush park, Gresswell nature reserve & La Trobe wildlife santtuary) by S. Griffiths & A. Dimovksi. Insect traps built by K. Robert & J. Robert with Modifications made by S. Griffiths, A. Dimovoski, J. Robert & K. Robert. Data collection over 3 days and 3 nights (30.3.21 - 2.4.21). On automated pet dispenser - tray 1, 3, 5 collect nocturnal samples and trays 2, 4, 6 collect diurnal samples