Oriental cockroaches are a very common pest. The females are 1 – 1 1/4 inches long and have wings, but cannot fly. The adult oriental cockroaches are dark brown to black in color. They can be found in mulch beds decomposing leaves, under stones, near drains, and in crawl spaces beneath your home. Oriental roaches can enter your home through cracks in the foundation, sewer pipes, and other entry ways. These roaches leave a scent trail for other roaches and can become a problem rapidly. The oriental roach is known to cause food poisoning, diarrhea, asthma, and dysentery. To help prevent roaches, cleanliness inside and out is a must. Keep your kitchen clean and do not allow grease, crumbs, or clutter to accumulate anywhere. Store all food, including pet food in tightly sealed containers. Outside, seal all gaps around water, gas and heating pipes. Make sure all window screens fit properly and seal gaps around doors. Remove debris and trim ground cover, as well as remove firewood and garbage cans away from house.