Only Thing I have Found to Protect Fruit

[Smokegobbler]

Primarily sardines (the cheap ones). Smoked fish works good as well (does not break down as fast in the heat). I also add some old crystallized honey. I like to dig a small 3" deep hole under the trap for the bait (ensures the trigger pan goes off when they try reaching for it).

 

[SwampCat]

Primarily sardines (the cheap ones). Smoked fish works good as well (does not break down as fast in the heat). I also add some old crystallized honey. I like to dig a small 3" deep hole under the trap for the bait (ensures the trigger pan goes off when they try reaching for it).

I cant use any kind of meat or sweet about nine months out of the year as the fireants will consume it in an hour. Non cold weather I have to use dry catfood, catfish pellets, or corn - which dont have the draw of meat products

 

[Tree Spud]

Maybe consider adding some owl nesting boxes near the orchard. You could also add a perch pole overlooking the orchard..

Owls at night, hawks during the day. Might not take a larger coon, but could grab the yougsters. Good also to control voles, mice, etc.

 

[Smokegobbler]

I cant use any kind of meat or sweet about nine months out of the year as the fireants will consume it in an hour. Non cold weather I have to use dry catfood, catfish pellets, or corn - which dont have the draw of meat products

That would make the trapping a challenge. Could the bait be placed in a small mesh organza type bag to minimize the fire ant problem? Also, if fire ants don't swim, another thought would be to place the bait a pan of water, sort of like like a moat (use something to keep it above the water). Probably easier said then done.

 

[SwampCat]

That would make the trapping a challenge. Could the bait be placed in a small mesh organza type bag to minimize the fire ant problem? Also, if fire ants don't swim, another thought would be to place the bait a pan of water, sort of like like a moat (use something to keep it above the water). Probably easier said then done.

they swim