The Pest House

The people who live in this hand-crafted wooden doll house have their troubles: ten troubles, in fact. Flies, mold, ants, and raccoons are only some of them. Problems such as branches too close to the house and holes in walls can be rectified by moving a part that resets itself when the visitor is done. The display combines two over-arching concepts—pest problems and IPM solutions—into one exhibit. Visitors can interact with the house on three sides, one of which allows them inside the rooms.

A clear Plexiglas display rack attaches to the roof and holds slender pest information cards that provide additional facts. Shaped like bookmarks, each card focuses on a separate pest found in the house: bats, mice, kitchen moths, ants, carpenter ants, mold, mosquitoes, raccoons, squirrels, and houseflies.

This display comes in a sturdy wooden box that flips open and then functions as the exhibit’s table. The box containing the display measures 24.5 inches x 27 inches x 41 inches (plus a 2-inch handle) and has 3-inch wheels that enable it to be rolled from one location to another. Approximate weight: 100 pounds.

To borrow, call the NYS IPM Program, 315-787-2353. The Pest House must be picked up and returned to the NYS IPM Program headquarters in Geneva NY. Because of its weight and size it must be transported with a dolly and possibly a minivan for travel.

Funding provided through a Northeastern IPM Center Regional grant.