Creature Feature

The Turkestan cockroach is native to much of the Middle East through Central Asia. It was most likely introduced to the United States in military equipment returning from the Middle East in the late 1970s. Since then, it has become common in southern California and across the southwestern states into Texas where it appears to be displacing the Oriental cockroach. It may occur in other states near military bases or due to its popularity as a live feeder insect for reptile pets.

The Turkestan cockroach is a peridomestic pest, meaning it can live in or around structures. In less humid environments, it tends to be more of an outdoor pest often found in underground utility boxes and hollow block walls. They become more of an indoor pest as heat and humidity increases, or if introduced in potted plants or storage boxes. Because the Turkestan cockroach reproduces relatively quickly for a peridomestic cockroach, it can create large infestations fast.

Avert DF is a cockroach bait in a dust formulation that can be applied to areas gel baits can’t reach, such as wall voids. Small applications are effective and will last one year or more if applied to sites that remain dry. Alpine WSG received reduced risk status from the EPA and is specifically labeled for Turkestan cockroaches. Indoors, crack and crevice and spot applications are ideal, and moist areas and interiorscapes can be treated. Outdoors, Fendona CS is fast-acting and can be applied to outdoor voids, including meter boxes and manholes.