Beer and bran-based slug baits
Both slugs and snails are highly
attracted to the odor of yeast. In fact,
beer, which has a strong yeasty odor, makes an
excellent slug and snail attractant all by itself.
Beer-based traps are widely used for inexpensive
slug and snail control. However, beer traps are
very messy and difficult to deploy because they
need to be emptied and re-filled every day or two
(see below).
Bran and yeast-based solid baits
also are highly attractive to both slugs and
snails. Baits are usually formulated with a poison
(active ingredient) that kills the slug or snail
when the bait is consumed. Until recently the
chemical metaldehyde was used as the
poison component. Metaldehyde, however, is
extremely hazardous to pets and wildlife that
ingests the bait. Fortunately, safer alternatives
based on a naturally occurring fertilizer, iron
(ferric) phosphate, are now available.