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Mediterranean spotted cockroach #651898

Asked June 16, 2020, 6:05 PM EDT

Hi, I keep finding these bugs in my house. After research online I discovered it was the Mediterranean spotted cockroach. At first they were only around the windows but now I’m finding dead ones all around the house. I found a live adult in my kitchen last night. Their numbers are increasing every year and they are moving inward in the house. I’m terrified my house is going to be infested. I am going to contact a pest control company but I was wondering if you have any tips on types of chemicals or other control methods before I do. I live in a second floor condo in southeast Michigan. I included a pic but it’s not the best Thank you! Heather

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello,

The Mediterranean spotted cockroach is normally an outdoor dweller and can be discouraged from entering buildings  by applying a persistent insecticide in a band around the exterior of the building. Here is an article that discusses this type of cockroach. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/spotted_mediterranean_cockroaches

Here is an article( scroll down) with a clear picture of the insect and a ruler for size-

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/early_july_home_and_garden_insect_highlights#note

I submitted your picture to MSU Entomologist,  Howard Russell, and he says if this roach is about ¾ inch long  then it is a Mediterranean spotted cockroach.

 The insects already indoors  you can control by following indoor roach control methods. Here is an  article that covers all aspects of home owner indoor management of  roaches and what to look for when hiring a professional service:  https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef614

 Here is another  reference that lists the active ingredients in pesticides that homeowners can use for roaches. A professional service will have access to regulated chemicals that are not available to homeowners. They should be able to spray the correct chemical on the outside of the building as well as indoor type chemicals.

https://extension.umn.edu/insects-infest-homes/cockroaches#using-pesticides-136961

 

I hope this information is helpful.

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