Cockroach Identification & Prevention

What are cockroaches?

The American cockroach, German cockroach, and Oriental cockroach are all species of roaches that have discovered how wonderful it is to live near people, much to our dismay. Most species of cockroaches live outside and away from people and are helpful by getting rid of decaying debris and waste. But, those that have created a life for themselves with or near people are problematic and dangerous pests.

Cockroaches have an oval-shaped body and long antennae. Most have wings, but cockroaches are not known to be great flyers; instead, they scurry from place to place using their six legs.

Are cockroaches dangerous?

Cockroaches gravitate to areas of filth and debris. They are scavengers and love to feed on decaying plant and animal matter. While traveling through filth, they pick up a variety of human pathogens, bacteria, and parasites on their bodies and legs.

When cockroaches find their way into your home, they bring with them disease-causing pathogens and parasites that they then spread throughout your house. E. coli, salmonella, and gastroenteritis are all transmitted by cockroaches. The health threats that cockroaches pose make them a dangerous pest and one that should be eliminated from any home or business as quickly as possible.

Beyond being a health risk, cockroaches are also damaging pests. Inside homes, cockroaches stain or chew through things like boxes, books, clothing, upholstered furniture, curtains, and other paper and fabric items.

Why do I have a cockroach problem?

Cockroaches may become a problem in your home after they are introduced inside on something or by coming inside on their own. Cockroaches find their way inside by hitchhiking in or on many things including:

• Grocery bags
• Delivery boxes
• Shopping bags
• Upholstered furniture
• Used appliances
• Electronics

These insects are also attracted to areas of moisture. Things like leaky outdoor fixtures or water pooling around your home attract cockroaches.

Where will I find cockroaches?

Cockroaches can live both indoors and out, with some species preferring one over the other. Take, for instance, the German cockroach, they have come to live mainly indoors and are common invaders of homes, restaurants, and other businesses where food is prepared or stored. Then you have the American cockroach and Oriental cockroach, they both like to live outside but do often move inside while foraging for food or in an effort to escape hot, dry weather conditions.

Inside of homes, most species of cockroaches prefer to live in dark, warm, humid areas. They often hide out in the dark crevices in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms. Cockroaches are nocturnal, so if you are seeing them out during the day, you are likely dealing with a large infestation that requires immediate attention from a professional.

How do I get rid of cockroaches?

The first step you should take to get rid of cockroaches from your property is to contact a professional. At Admiral Pest Control, our professionals know the steps needed to eliminate cockroaches and prevent a re-infestation.

We are our area’s oldest family-run pest control company, and we take care of all our customers as if they are part of our family. If you are looking to rid your southern Los Angeles County or Orange County residential or commercial property of pests, reach out to the friendly and knowledgeable professionals at Admiral Pest Control. Call us today to learn more about our cockroach control services!

How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?

Cockroaches and other pests are difficult to prevent, so the best prevention tip is always to partner with a trained and experienced professional. You can also use the following tips from Admiral Pest Control to help you avoid problems with cockroaches:

• Remove a cockroach’s easy access to food and water by repairing leaky pipes, keeping lids on trash cans, picking up pet food, and keeping kitchens clean, and floors vacuumed.
• Store the food in pantry areas in plastic or glass containers with airtight lids.
• Remove trash from your home daily and stored in containers outside with locking lids until trash day.
• Limit eating to kitchen and dining areas.
• Seal up spaces in your home’s exterior to stop them from moving inside by caulking openings in walls, around windows and doors, and in the foundation.
• Place covers over vents or drains entering into your home.
• Keep your home free of clutter and remove empty cardboard boxes and other unneeded items from storage areas.