What do we do about this? I set out JB traps. I have my JB traps set about 10′-15′ down wind from plants that I know are chewed on every year. The reason for the distance is so the beetles are attracted away from their favorite food and hopefully less damage is done. Do the traps attract JB from other areas too? Probably, but I find it difficult to stand by and watch my plants be defoliated. It is also very satisfiying to watch the beetles fly into the traps!
Biological control is a great idea. If you provide a variety of plants in your yard, you will be drawing different types of birds that eat the JB. Starlings, Cardinals, Grackles, Meadowlarks, Crows, Chickens, Pheasants, Ducks, Geese, and even Guineas are all great predators of the JB.
