Which type of pest control uses a mechanical device?

Mechanical control is the method of pest management that specifically involves the use of physical devices or barriers to manage pest populations. This might include options such as traps, vacuum devices, barriers like screens or nets, and other tools designed to exterminate, exclude, or prevent pests from causing damage.

Recognizing mechanical control is essential because it relies on direct action rather than chemical or biological means. This type of control can be very effective as it often doesn't have the drawbacks associated with chemical residues or the complexities of biological control, which involves using predators or parasites.

In contrast, chemical control relies on pesticides to manage pests, which can pose risks to non-target organisms and the environment. Biological control incorporates natural enemies of pests, like predators or pathogens, to reduce pest populations but may require an understanding of ecologies that mechanical control does not. Integrated pest management is a holistic approach combining various strategies, including mechanical, but is not a standalone method like mechanical control.