What might indicate that a pest problem is getting worse?

Increased catch in traps is a clear indicator that a pest problem is potentially worsening. A higher number of insects caught signifies that there is a growing population of pests in the area, which suggests they may be breeding and expanding their territory. This increase can lead to greater damage to crops, plants, or structures, meaning that immediate action may be necessary to control the pest population before it escalates further.

Monitoring pest populations through traps provides valuable data. When the number of caught insects rises, it typically reflects a behavioral change in the pest population, such as increased activity or reproduction. This metric is crucial for effective pest management decisions, as it helps professionals determine the urgency of intervention measures needed to mitigate the issue.

In contrast, a decrease in caught insects, more diverse insect capture, and consistent catch over time could suggest either stability or decline in pest populations, but they do not necessarily indicate that a problem is worsening. Each of those scenarios reflects different dynamics of pest behavior that may not warrant immediate concern.