CCI Notes 3/2 Detecting Infestations

CCI Notes 3/2 Detecting Infestations
Source: Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI)

The presence of insect pests in a museum is indicated by a variety of signs (casings, frass, cocoons, etc.). While the actual living organisms may be visible in various stages of development, the signs of activity are usually detected first. There are two basic modes of detecting insect infestations: active, where someone inspects likely areas and objects; and passive, where a trap collects pests or indicates their presence. The latter mode, however, still requires someone to inspect the traps, to record the findings, and to follow up on the problem.