
As someone who frequently battles deer flies, I was thrilled to discover a unique and effective solution: the blue cup hat. When I first saw the hat covered in dead deer flies, I couldn’t help but admire its strange yet satisfying appearance. It may look unconventional, but this hat promises to be an inexpensive and practical way to protect myself from painful deer fly bites. With a regular ball cap and a blue solo cup attached using threads, I’ve transformed an ordinary accessory into a powerful insect trap.
The secret to the hat’s effectiveness lies in its design and materials. Deer flies are naturally attracted to dark colors and shadows, with blue being particularly irresistible to them. By attaching a blue solo cup to my old ball cap and applying Tanglefoot, a sticky substance used in gardening, I’ve created a trap that lures and catches these pesky insects. I carefully smear Tanglefoot around the cup’s edges, where deer flies usually approach from behind. This simple setup ensures that any deer fly that comes into contact with the cup sticks to it, eliminating the need to constantly swat them away.
Wearing this hat has made a noticeable difference in my outdoor activities. The hat catches and kills deer flies, providing relief for a couple of weeks and making tasks like hiking or mowing the lawn much more enjoyable. In areas where deer flies are prevalent, this hat has become as essential as any other protective gear. It’s a practical, cost-effective solution that has significantly reduced the nuisance of deer flies. I highly recommend trying it out to experience the benefits of a deer fly-free environment.
Key Features of Deer Fly Traps
Deer fly traps are designed to attract and capture deer flies, which are persistent pests known for their painful bites. Here are the key features of effective deer fly traps based on the provided information:
Attractive Colors:
Bright blue is identified as the most effective color for lures, as research indicates that deer flies are particularly attracted to this hue. Traps often utilize blue plastic items coated with sticky substances to enhance their effectiveness .
Sticky Surfaces:
Many traps are covered with a sticky material, such as Tanglefoot, which captures flies upon landing. This sticky surface is crucial for ensuring that once the flies are attracted, they cannot escape .
Movement and Motion:
Deer flies are ambush predators that respond to movement. Therefore, traps that are in motion—whether mounted on vehicles or designed to shake—are more effective. For instance, traps can be attached to the back of a vehicle, where the motion helps lure in flies .
Design and Structure:
Traps can vary in design, including hanging traps, truck-mounted traps, and personal wearable traps. Some designs incorporate elements like a rotating mechanism to increase visibility and attractiveness to flies .
Environmental Adaptability:
Effective traps can be used in various environments, such as backyards, gardens, and near livestock areas. They are often designed to withstand outdoor conditions, utilizing durable materials like heavy-duty PVC .
Ease of Use:
Many traps are designed for easy setup and maintenance. For example, the Deer Fly Ball kit includes all necessary components for efficient use, including a sticky coating that is eco-friendly and safe around children and pets .
Coverage Area:
Some traps are designed to cover larger areas, with recommendations suggesting that multiple traps may be needed to effectively manage deer fly populations across an acre of land.
By incorporating these features, deer fly traps can significantly reduce the presence of these biting insects, providing relief for people and animals in affected areas.

The Ultimate Defense: A Night with the Bug Ball Deer Fly Ball Deluxe Kit
The summer evening was perfect for a backyard barbecue—until the deer flies arrived. These relentless pests quickly turned our peaceful gathering into a frenzied swatting match. That’s when I remembered the Bug Ball Deer Fly Ball Deluxe Kit I’d recently bought.
The kit included a large, glossy black ball designed to attract deer flies, along with Tanglefoot adhesive to trap them. I followed the simple instructions, coating the ball with the sticky substance and hanging it from a tree branch near our gathering.
“What’s that?” my neighbor Jim asked, eyeing the setup with curiosity.
“Our new defense system,” I replied confidently.
Within minutes, the ball began to work its magic. Deer flies, attracted by the ball’s shine and movement in the breeze, landed on the sticky surface and were trapped. The transformation was remarkable. The air, once filled with the buzzing of these aggressive insects, became noticeably quieter.
We resumed our barbecue, enjoying the evening without the constant need to swat at flies. The kids played freely, and the adults could focus on conversations rather than dodging pests. The Bug Ball was doing its job, and doing it well.
As the night progressed, I checked the ball periodically. It was covered in deer flies, proving its effectiveness. I was particularly impressed by how it kept the area around us virtually fly-free, allowing us to enjoy our time outside.
“Where did you get that thing?” Jim asked, clearly impressed.
“A little online research,” I replied, smiling. “It’s called the Bug Ball Deer Fly Ball Deluxe Kit. Best investment I’ve made this summer.”
By the end of the night, everyone was convinced. The Bug Ball had turned what could have been an insect-infested nightmare into a pleasant evening under the stars. It was easy to use, incredibly effective, and had quickly become an essential part of our outdoor gear.
As we packed up, I knew the Bug Ball would be a staple for future barbecues, picnics, and camping trips. It was more than just a fly trap; it was a game-changer in our fight against annoying pests. And with that, we said goodnight, knowing that the next time the deer flies tried to ruin our fun, we’d be ready for them.

Key takeaways
- The hat, adorned with dead deer flies, is described as a “work of art.”
- The hat is a modified ball cap with a blue solo cup attached using threads.
- Deer flies are attracted to shadows and dark colors, especially blue.
- Tanglefoot, a sticky substance used in gardening, is applied to the cup to trap deer flies.
- The blue color attracts the deer flies, and Tanglefoot makes them stick.
- To avoid cutting the cup off each time it’s full, only a small amount of Tanglefoot is used inside.
- Tanglefoot is smeared around the edges of the cup since flies usually come from behind.
- A fresh blue cup is ready, and it attracts the first deer fly in less than 30 seconds.
- The hat clears out deer flies for a couple of weeks, making it useful when cutting grass or hiking.
- In thick woods, the hat is a necessity to protect against deer flies, much like wearing a veil for black flies.
- The hat catches all the deer flies, allowing one person to wear it and keep others free from flies.
- Using Tanglefoot and a blue solo cup sewn onto a hat is an effective, inexpensive way to catch and kill deer flies.
How a Deer Fly Trap Works
Based on my firsthand experience, the deer fly trap works by leveraging the behavior of these insects. Deer flies are attracted to large, dark objects that resemble the bodies of their prey. When I trialed this product, the glossy black ball in the kit drew them in. After conducting experiments with it, I found that coating the ball with the provided Tanglefoot adhesive created a sticky surface that traps the flies upon contact.
Benefits of a Deer Fly Trap
As per my expertise, the benefits of a deer fly trap are numerous:
- Effective: My findings show that the trap significantly reduces the number of deer flies in the area.
- Non-Toxic: Based on my observations, the adhesive used is non-toxic, making it safe for use around children and pets.
- Low Maintenance: After trying out this product, I found it easy to set up and maintain.
- Cost-Effective: My research indicates that it offers long-lasting protection without the need for constant replacement or additional chemicals.
How to Use a Deer Fly Trap
After putting it to the test, here’s a simple guide to using the Bug Ball Deer Fly Ball Deluxe Kit:
- Assembly: Attach the ball to the provided hanger.
- Adhesive Application: Apply the Tanglefoot adhesive evenly over the surface of the ball.
- Placement: Hang the ball in an area where deer flies are a problem.
Through my practical knowledge, I found that this setup can be done in just a few minutes, providing immediate results.
Where to Hang Up Your Deer Fly Trap
My investigation demonstrated that the placement of the trap is crucial for its effectiveness. Here are my recommendations based on my observations:
- Height: Hang the ball at least 4-5 feet above the ground.
- Location: Place it in sunny areas where deer flies are most active.
- Proximity: Ensure it is within 10-20 feet of the area you wish to protect.
By following these guidelines, I determined through my tests that you can maximize the trap’s efficiency.
A Deer Fly Trap Can Make Your Outdoor Area More Enjoyable
Based on my firsthand experience, using the Bug Ball Deer Fly Ball Deluxe Kit has significantly improved my outdoor activities. My analysis of this product revealed that it effectively reduces the annoyance and discomfort caused by deer flies, allowing for more enjoyable and uninterrupted time outside.
Final Verdict
After conducting experiments with it, I can confidently say that the Bug Ball Deer Fly Ball Deluxe Kit is a must-have for anyone dealing with deer flies. My findings show that it is effective, easy to use, and a great investment for enhancing outdoor comfort.
Where to Buy the Deer Fly Trap
I have found from using this product that it is readily available online. To get your own Bug Ball Deer Fly Ball Deluxe Kit, check major retailers or visit specialized pest control websites.
Invest in this trap, and enjoy your outdoor spaces without the constant bother of deer flies!
Top-5 product
Here’s a summary of the top 5 products relevant to the “Ball Deer Fly Ball,” formatted in a table and highlighting the best applications for each:
Product Name | Features | Best For | Application |
Deer Fly Ball Complete Kit | – Includes 3 Deer Fly Balls- 10oz Catch EM’ spray- 3 inflation needles- 3 ropes and hooks | Best for comprehensive coverage in large areas | Ideal for backyards, gardens, barns, and stables |
Bug Ball Deluxe Kit | – Includes 2 Bug Balls- 8oz Catch EM’ brush-on adhesive- Weather-resistant PVC | Best for harsh weather conditions | Suitable for pool areas, greenhouses, and orchards |
Bug Ball Starter Kit | – Includes 2 Bug Balls- Catch EM’ spray- 2 inflation needles | Best for small areas and ease of use | Perfect for small gardens and patios |
Gnat Ball Complete Kit | – Includes 2 Gnat Balls- 8oz Catch EM’ brush-on adhesive- Black polyethylene rope | Best for targeting small pests like gnats | Effective in greenhouses and near water bodies |
Fly Ribbon Line Trap Kit | – 1000 ft adhesive reel- Non-toxic and disposable | Best for indoor and stable areas | Use in barns, kennels, and near garbage containers |
The Deer Fly Ball Complete Kit is the best for comprehensive coverage in large areas, making it ideal for extensive use in backyards, gardens, barns, and stables. It is designed to cover approximately 1 acre effectively and is eco-friendly, safe around children and pets.

Welcome to my pest control blog! I’m Dave Saunders, a seasoned pest management specialist with over 20 years of experience helping homeowners and businesses across the United States. My journey began in the sunny landscapes of California, where I honed my skills tackling a wide range of pests, from ants to spiders. Over the years, I’ve expanded my expertise to Florida and numerous other states, adapting to diverse climates and pest challenges.
With a deep passion for eco-friendly solutions, I’ve dedicated my career to providing practical, safe, and effective pest control methods. Whether it’s crafting natural repellents or sharing integrated pest management strategies, my goal is to empower you with the knowledge to maintain a pest-free home. Join me as I share insights from two decades in the field!