Cockroaches

Cockroaches vary in size and color, but have similar hard, flat, oval-shaped bodies, and two antennae that are usually as long as, or longer than, their bodies. Depending on the species, cockroaches may or may not have wings; even those with wings, however, they aren’t known for being great fliers. Most species of cockroaches are social, and live together in large groups – making controlling and eliminating them a difficult task. There are many species of cockroaches that live outside and away from people. These species are scavengers and help to break-down decaying plant and animal matter, which makes them very helpful. It is only the handful of cockroaches that have discovered the benefits of living with or near people that cause us problems. Some of the most common species of cockroaches to invade homes and businesses in our area are the German cockroach, Oriental cockroach, and American cockroach.

No species of cockroach should be allowed to live with people,  as they cause a variety of serious problems. Cockroaches living outside live and travel in unsanitary places, such as sewers, trash cans, drains, and decaying plant or animal matter. Once inside your home or business, cockroaches will contaminate food, food prep areas, dishes, and surfaces with bacteria, human pathogens, and parasites they carry on their body and legs. In addition, the build-up of their excrement and shed skins will cause the flare of allergies and trigger asthmas attacks in many, with young children being most susceptible. Cockroaches move inside through cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows and doors, spaces around air conditioners, and through drains or vents. They also move inside on potted plants, in delivery boxes, or in used appliances that are infested with these hitchhiking pests. The many ways they are able to enter inside buildings make avoiding cockroaches a difficult task.

Cockroach prevention tips: Get rid of entry points by sealing cracks in the foundation and exterior walls, placing weather strips around windows and doors, and fix damaged screens. Eliminate standing water by fixing leaky pipes and fixtures and maintaining gutters. Reduce humidity levels in your home by using dehumidifiers and keeping crawlspaces ventilated. Get rid of places for cockroaches to forage for food on your property by keeping locking lids on outdoor trashcans and compost bins. Inside store food in the refrigerator or airtight containers. Before bringing in used furniture, potted plants, appliances, and packages inspect the items for signs of cockroaches.