In addition to my Urban Entomology Extension Program, I look forward to developing a complementary applied research component as well. The overall focus will serve to eventually allow Pest Management Professionals (PMPs) from Mississippi and throughout the Mid-South region to better serve their customers in protecting their homes and businesses, defending public health, and guarding our nation's food supply. It is imperative that the Pest Management Industry remain on the cutting edge of new scientific advancement as they deal with both newly introduced/invasive pestiferous species and changes to active ingredient availability and allowed usages.
In conjunction with the North American Termite Survey (NATS) working group, my lab will continue to both actively and passively track the spread of the Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus) in Mississippi and throughout the Midsouth region.
It is known that insect pests are often found inside of rodent bait stations, and it is not uncommon for them to consume/relocate rodenticide bait. This multi-disciplinary project utilizes non-toxic rodent monitoring bait in secured rodent bait stations around the Mississippi State University campus, and seeks to elucidate whether or not application of approved insecticides to the interior of these stations inhibits rodent visits to the interior bait compartment. This methodology is paired with a series of strategically placed, game cameras that are installed specifically to monitor these stations to determine what the prevalent species of commensal rodent is among other factors. Game cams will NOT face windows and will NOT take pictures of people as they are hidden in vegetation and will be facing the bottom 1-2 feet of walls.
If you encounter bait stations, game cams, or other equipment associated with this product please do not touch it. Questions regarding the monitoring stations or project should be directed to Dr. Portugal at jsp281@msstate.edu, 662-325-0972. Questions regarding the cameras should be directed to Dr. Adam Rohnke at atr51@msstate.edu, 601-857-2284. This project will continue through April 2027 at which point all equipment will be removed.
“This proposed project has been evaluated by the MSU IACUC staff and per Mississippi State University Policy for Animal Care and Use, does not require an approved IACUC protocol.”