What is typically referred to as "bait" in pest management?

In pest management, "bait" commonly refers to a food substance that is designed to attract pests to a trap or a location where they can be controlled. This approach is often used to lure pests to a specific area where they can then be effectively managed, whether through trapping or poisoning. The bait usually contains an attractive edible component paired with a pesticide or toxic agent, which ultimately leads to the control of the pest population.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of what bait means in this context. A chemical that repels pests serves a different function, as it is intended to keep pests away rather than attract them. A pesticide that kills pests instantly is focused on eradication rather than attraction, and a device used to capture pests describes a tool rather than the substance that lures pests in. Therefore, the defining characteristic of bait is its dual role in attraction and control, making it a crucial element in effective pest management strategies.