Cockroaches cause many problems. Termite control contaminate food and drink, spread disease organisms such as salmonella and E coli O157:H7 on their legs and bodies, enter the ears of children causing ear infections, and trigger allergies in susceptible people. Droppings, cast skins and fecal matter can also aggravate asthma and other respiratory conditions.
A number of cockroach control methods are available to the homeowner including baits and traps. Glue traps are useful survey tools to determine the presence of a cockroach infestation and to gauge control efforts. However, they do not provide effective stand-alone control. Baits, on the other hand, offer much more consistent and effective results. They are especially effective when placed in close proximity to cockroach aggregations. These can be identified by fecal specks or dark stains, casting skins, or egg cases. These aggregation sites often contain a natural attractant or aggregation pheromone. The most popular bait application method for use in the home is within prefilled cockroach bait stations, small plastic units that are available commercially and can be refilled with a combination of food base and insecticide.
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Indoor cockroach control is most effective when all sources of food and water are eliminated, surfaces are wiped down and vacuumed frequently to remove dust and debris that provides harborage for cockroaches. Vacuuming cracks and crevices reduces overall cockroach populations and allows pesticides to take effect more quickly.
Large cockroaches (Smoky-brown Cockroach Periplaneta fuliginosa, Brown Cockroach Periplaneta brunnea, and American Cockroach Periplaneta americana) occur statewide but are more common in the southern region where mild weather favors sustained outdoor populations. High populations of these species can be found in sewer drains, under dumpsters and trash cans, behind buildings and in soffit and attic voids. In addition, they breed and overwinter in lawns, landscape mulch, bushes and leaf litter where they have adapted to colder temperatures.