Catching Escapees!
Posted by moose9 on February 3, 2011
Most peoples biggest fear of keeping and breeding roaches is, “what if they get loose”. Below are a few ways to catch any that may get loose.
Some background info:
In general, tropical species of roaches will not infest your home in the US, with the exception of Florida and a few southern states like CA, AZ, TX. Tropical roaches require warmer, moist humid conditions and a readily supply of food and water to survive. Most households don’t have these conditions. We live in S. CA. and have NEVER had a problem.
Roaches need to be hydrated and plenty of humidity to molt (grow) successfully. If its to dry, they end up dying during this process, so again, not likely to survive long outside there artificial environment. I have escapes occasionally, but always end up finding them dead days later. Usually on there back, Legs up or in one of the traps mentioned below.
Trapping escapees:
I know of 5 ways to catch these little critters.
1) Sticky mice/rat glue traps. These work well at catching the roaches and anything crawling around in your room. They come flat. I take them and fold them into rectangular boxes, keeps the dust out better and the roaches are attracted to most anything they can hide in.
2) Inverted bottle trap. Take a soda bottle, cut the top off about 3″ inches down and invert into bottle. You can put water or anything else you think might attract them in the bottom. Lean the bottle against a wall. The roaches will climb the wall and fall into the bottle when attempting to get whats in the bottom.
3) Water death trap. Similar to one above but just place a tall cup or glass against a wall and fill half with water. Loose roaches are attracted to water and are drawn to it like a magnet. Roach climbs wall, falls in and drowns.
4) Live food trap. Identical to the above, but with a food source instead of water. Now if left unattended to long, any caught roaches will perish due to lack of water.
5) Egg flats. These work okay for catching them live. Egg flats provide a place to hide and feel secure. Eventually they venture in and make themselves at home. Place egg flats in various locations and check periodically for tenants.
All the above have worked for me. The sticky glue traps had the best results overall. If you have a different way that has worked for you, please share it with us. Always room to learn!
