Roaches in the pile...ok?

[Jim In Dallas]

We have just recently moved. Had two compost bins at our previous house. No roaches.
I just went out to turn the piles, and there are roaches everywhere it them! Temps are good, and I feed the bins with dried molasses. Are roaches ok? Just so long as they stay out there, I don't mind. Just want to make sure I am not doing something wrong.
Sorry to be so stupid.
Jim

[Mr. Clean]

Perfectly resasonable question :)

I have read some folks say that they are fine out there (in the compost pile) and that they are performing a job. Personally, being in Texas where they are everywhere I kill them (or try to) anytime I see them. I don't see them large numbers (I've probably seen 6 or so, but I'm sure that means that I haven't seen at least that many), but the number(s) I see are large :D They are the big reddish brown that some refer to as 'water bugs'. Their bodys are big enough to make a good target for a squirt of orange oil, or shown the sole of my shoe.

[Tree Dude]

You are not stupid.

Roaches are just eating the dead stuff just like rest of the critters.

Tree Dude

[Jim In Dallas]

Thanks, guys. I feel better now :)
Jim

[Dchall_San_Antonio]

Roaches are great in the pile, dead or alive. So are worms (of course), ants, maggots, other larvae, flies, mosquitoes, and snakes. I've seen them all. As long as they are eating something in the pile and leaving behind their poop, I'm all for it.