masking tape OR black paint OR black construction paper
petroleum jelly
cardboard strip OR wooden tongue depressor
food for cockroach bait
Coat the outside of your container with masking tape, black paint, or construction paper to make the inside of your container dark and inviting to a cockroach. Smear a wide band of petroleum jelly around the inside of the container just below the neck. Add bits of food to the container for cockroach bait.
Where in your school, home, or club might cockroaches be hiding? Select a site, get permission, then go and set up your trap. Place the trap on its side. Create a miniature ramp using the cardboard strip or tongue depressor, extending the ramp from the floor to the container. If you catch a few cockroaches, quickly screw the lid on tightly. You don't want any cockroaches to escape. Notify the building authorities of your discovery.
