What is a tool commonly used for pest scouting in agriculture?

Sweep nets and sticky traps are widely recognized tools for pest scouting in agriculture. They are specifically designed to collect and identify pests present in the field.

Sweep nets operate by being swept through vegetation, capturing insects that may be hiding in the plants. This method allows farmers or agronomists to physically collect samples of pests and assess their population levels, which is crucial for making informed pest management decisions.

Sticky traps, on the other hand, are left in the field to attract and capture flying insects. These traps provide valuable data on pest presence and abundance over time. They can also help in monitoring pest populations and understanding their peak activity periods, aiding in the timing of pest control measures.

Using these tools effectively helps in early detection of pest outbreaks and can lead to more targeted and efficient control strategies, ultimately supporting sustainable agricultural practices.