A composition in compacted form for use for termite monitoring and control comprises a cellulose material which may be purified cellulose or micro-crystalline cellulose as a base bait, the composition being compacted to an optimum density of not less than approximately 1.033 g/cc. Also disclosed is a method for monitoring and controlling termite infestations which comprises the steps of a) preparing such a composition； b) placing the composition in a bait station； c) monitoring the station at periodic time intervals for termites； and d) upon observing termite infestation in the bait station, replacing the above composition with a bait composition containing a termite killing agent.
