Bamboo, at least ¾- to 1-inch inner diameter, can be used for refugia lures (provides retreat and nesting site) for coqui frogs. Cut the bamboo between nodes (8-10 inches in length), to make a cylinder with one open end. Drill a 1-inch hole along the side, about 4 inches from the closed end (Fig. 1). The hole will serve as an entrance/exit for the frog. Use black plastic to partially cover the open end of the bamboo cylinder to provide some protection for the frogs seeking refuge while allowing rain to collect in the bamboo, making it more attractive to the frog. The lures should be attached 3 to 5 ft above the ground on trees or stakes in infested areas (where frogs are calling). According to Dr Larry Woolbright, an expert with coqui frogs, these lures can be preferred refuge sites or homes for the frogs.

Figure 1. Bamboo refugia

(note that the drilled entrance hole is unobstructed and the frogs can freely come and go)

Although the frogs can freely come and go from the lures, they rarely try to escape, especially when tending a clutch of eggs, and can be easily captured. These are meant to LURE the frogs into using either the bamboo or PVC shelter instead of plants, trees or rock walls to lay their eggs (like a birdhouse).  The frogs are not "trapped", so check the lures during the day at least every 2 weeks (eggs hatch in 14 days) (Fig. 3); remove any adults that have taken up residence, as well as any eggs you find, into a plastic bag or similar container and apply any one of the following treatments: 1) fill the container with hot, soapy water (at least 113 degrees F for 3 min.), 2) freeze for at least 3 hours, or 3) thoroughly spray eggs and adults with 16% citric acid solution (1.3 lb citric acid per 1 gallon of water, or use premixed solutions available in garden shops). Make sure the frogs are dead before disposal to avoid accidentally infesting dump sites.

Figure 3. PVC refugia with brooding adult male and eggs