Method and apparatus for killing target pests using strategically designed moats. The moats are constructed of barrier material that is difficult for the target pests to traverse, material that is easy for the target pests to traverse, and killing material, which tends to kill the target pests after they have made adequate contact with it. These elements are strategically positioned so that target pests that are attracted to a bait travel along a long zigzag path parallel to the barrier material and, hence, a long zigzag path along killing material held by the material that is easy for the target pests to traverse and along any killing material contained in a strategically positioned furrow. Moat system embodiments that provide selective access to baits and/or killing material are disclosed. Several examples are provided demonstrating applications to bed bugs, and explanation is provided for how to apply the invention to other pests.
