Cockroaches are bothersome pests found throughout recorded history, which is evidence of their adaptability, durability, and resilience. Today, cockroaches often invade homes, schools, restaurants, and many other sites where food is accessible. With a flat, oval-shaped body, cockroaches will enter structures through small openings.
Cockroaches appear in various colors and have six legs and antennae. Some types of cockroaches have wings; however, many of them fly poorly and primarily use their wings for “gliding” or breaking their fall from elevated areas to surfaces below. Although largely seen as a nuisance pest, cockroaches routinely pass-through filthy areas and pose a variety of health risks.
What are the common signs of cockroaches in your home? Cockroaches are most active at night and generally remain hidden during the day inside walls, behind or below appliances, or within other hard-to-reach areas. Cockroaches often enter cupboards and pantries and tear open and scatter weakly packaged dried foods.
Homeowners with an active infestation will likely encounter some dead cockroaches while cleaning as well as their excrement and shed skins.
What is the best way to get rid of cockroaches? With a durable exoskeleton, elusiveness, and strong breeding capacity, completely ousting cockroach infestations is often challenging. Local property owners should consider speaking with a licensed pest control company for assistance with these harmful pests.
A well-trained Prosper pest control professional understands how to get rid of cockroaches fast and knows how to keep cockroaches out of your home.
Types Of Cockroaches That Commonly Invade Homes
More than 4000 different species of cockroaches exist worldwide, with approximately 30 primary types of cockroaches found across Texas. According to the AgriLife Extension at Texas A&M University, the most common species found in homes include:
- American cockroaches (Periplaneta americana): Sometimes referred to as palmetto bugs, the American cockroach often measures more than 1 ½ inches long, making it one of the largest species. American cockroaches have a dark, reddish color with yellow markings, and adult males and females both develop wings.
- German cockroaches (Blattella germanica): Primarily a species that lives indoors, German cockroaches measure roughly ½ to ¾ of an inch long. They typically appear in shades of tan or brown with two parallel black stripes.
- Oriental cockroaches (Blatta orientalis): The Oriental cockroach typically appears as shiny dark brown, or black and measures approximately one inch long. The species prefers cool, damp environments such as areas beneath sinks or near drains.
- Smoky brown cockroaches (Periplaneta fuliginosa): Measuring from 1 to 1 ½ inch long, the smoky brown cockroach is a larger species that lives outdoors—commonly in humid areas.
Regardless of the species, cockroaches are generally omnivorous creatures that will eat the majority of food that humans consume; therefore, limiting access to food and adopting excellent cleaning habits in kitchen areas are critical for preventing cockroaches.
How Cockroaches Can Trigger Allergies And Spread Disease
Do cockroaches bite people? Although some cockroaches might bite humans, instances are infrequent. Cockroaches might carry salmonellosis, E.coli infection, cholera, and other potentially harmful health-related concerns. Those with allergies often experience adverse reactions when large indoor infestations develop.
How And Why Cockroaches Invade Homes
Why are there cockroaches in your house? Cockroaches thrive in homes where the occupants demonstrate poor cleaning habits. Some of the most common attractants include crumbs on floors, dirty dishes, and kitchen-area trash cans without lids.
The Best Form Of Cockroach Control For Prosper Homes
Green Pest Guys is a family-owned provider of professional home pest control services that is a tremendous resource for property owners in the Prosper region. Our team of skilled technicians knows what to do about cockroaches that infiltrate homes, the best treatment options, and strategies that effectively limit the likelihood of experiencing future problems with these unwanted pests. Contact our team today regarding an inspection.