Cockroach Identification Guide
What are cockroaches?
Cockroaches are adaptable pests that have unique behaviors that have allowed them to stand the test of time. Cockroaches invade indoor and outdoor spaces worldwide, with most of the species living outside and away from people. Only those species that have adapted to living near people have become the pests we know today. Cockroaches are large insects that have an oval-shaped body, long antennae, and six spiny covered legs. Most have wings, but are not great flyers.
Listed below are some facts about cockroaches that explain why these pests are so challenging to control:
- Cockroaches can multiply quickly. A single female can produce 350-500 eggs in its lifetime.
- Catching roaches is difficult; they are fast, and some run up to three miles per hour.
- Roaches can live for a month without food. There could be hundreds of cockroaches in an area waiting for food to appear.
- They are resilient and can live for a week without their head. Only finally dying because they are unable to drink water.
- Cockroaches are notoriously difficult to eliminate without the help of an experienced pest professional.
Some of the most common species of roaches living across the country and in our area are the German cockroach, American cockroach, Oriental cockroach, and brown-banded cockroach.
Are cockroaches dangerous?
Cockroaches are dangerous and problematic pests. Some of the biggest problems they cause include:
- Spreading diseases like cholera, dysentery, E. coli, and salmonellosis.
- They carry on their bodies and in their excrement, many parasites that infect people and our pets.
- They deposit bacteria and pathogens on food, in cabinets, on dishes, on silverware, and on other surfaces.
- Cockroach infestations often trigger respiratory problems, including triggering asthma attacks.
- Their presence in unnerving and leads to sleepless nights for home and business owners.
Why do I have a cockroach problem?
Cockroaches are adaptable and live in many different environments, but most are attracted to any area that provides them with sources of moisture, food, and dark, hiding spots. Cockroaches move into structures on their own while foraging for food or are introduced inside in things like potted plants, bags, deliveries, used appliances, furniture, or electronics.
Cockroaches are active throughout the year. However, the hot, humid weather found in the spring and summer seasons cause roaches to become very active and are the times during the year when their populations often explode.
Where will I find cockroaches?
Cockroaches are nocturnal. They hide during the day in tight, dark cracks and crevices, and emerge at night to forage for food. If you are seeing cockroaches in your home during the day, it is a sign that the infestation is extensive, and they are searching for food all day instead of only at night.
Common indoor hiding spots for most cockroaches include the backs of cabinets, under sinks, and in drawers. American, German, and Oriental cockroaches prefer areas of a home that are high in humidity like basements, kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, and laundry rooms. The brown-banded cockroach prefers areas that are hot and dry, away from areas of moisture.
How do I get rid of cockroaches?
How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?
Let the professionals at BugBros in conjunction with our helpful prevention tips help you avoid problems with cockroaches:
- Eliminate food sources in your home that attract roaches. Store food in the fridge or in containers with sealing lids. Vacuum your floors each evening, wipe down counters, wash dirty dishes, and pick up uneaten pet food.
- Reduce hiding spots for cockroaches by keeping basements, closets, cabinets, drawers, and other storage areas free of debris and clutter.
- Make sure the exterior of your home is in good repair. Seal any cracks, crevices, gaps, and other openings you discover.
- Place tight-fitting mesh covers over vents, drains, and chimney openings.
- Repair holes along the roofline and any roof damage.
- Keep wandering roaches out by making sure doors and windows are shut tightly.
- Get rid of their access to water by repairing leaky pipes, hoses, and faucets.
For more information about our cockroach control services, reach out to BugBros Pest Control today. We would love to work with you to ensure that your residential or commercial property is free of cockroaches and other pests!
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