When cockroaches get inside residences, they are a serious health threat. Cockroaches are extremely dirty insects. They climb in dumpsters and sewers. They feed on rotting organic matter and feces. And they nibble on the decaying carcasses of dead animals. This exposes them to bacteria, parasitic worms, human pathogens, and other harmful organisms. When they get into your home, they carry these invisible threats in with them. This is the most important thing you need to know about cockroaches. Here are a few more.
All Roaches Are Not Created Equal
While all cockroach species are prone to crawling in dirty places and eating dirty things, they're not all prone to getting into man-made structures and staying. There are a few reasons for this.
- It is easier for cockroaches to find rotting organic material to feed on and breed in when they are on the outside of your home. This is because rotting things stink, and you're not going to put up with that.
- It is easier for some cockroaches to find the level of moisture they prefer when they are on the outside of your home. If you don't have any plumbing leaks or water damage to your home, some cockroaches will just stop by for a visit.
Which Cockroaches Are The Worst
We have four cockroach species that cause us the most trouble. Here's what you need to know about each (in order of difficulty):
German Cockroaches
This cockroach species is not only the worst structure-infesting cockroach in the world, it is the worst structure-infesting insect in the world. If you get these small, tan roaches, you'll have a lot of trouble getting rid of them. These roaches have two dark lines on their backs that look a little bit like an equal sign.
American Cockroaches
This cockroach species commonly infests structures but it prefers to be outside where there is higher humidity. If you keep your home dry with dehumidifiers and fans, and you make it difficult for American cockroaches to get a bite to eat, you might be able to make them go back outside. You can identify this cockroach by its chestnut coloration and the yellowish-orange number 8 symbol on its back.
Oriental Cockroaches
This cockroach species has a nasty, musky smell. If Oriental cockroaches get into your home, you're likely to know it and do something about it. Fortunately, they more commonly infest barns, sheds, and outbuildings. You can distinguish these roaches by their black and dark-reddish coloration.
Brown-Banded Cockroaches
Infestation of this species is low in Washington state but, if you get these tiny roaches in your home, they can be frustrating to deal with. Brown-banded cockroaches act a lot like German cockroaches and are prone to living inside man-made structures their entire life.
How Do You Control Cockroaches?
It is extremely difficult to control cockroaches. Roaches are uniquely designed to be able to get into man-made structures.
- They can scale vertical surfaces at full speed.
- They can run across ceilings at full speed.
- They can run almost full speed with their exoskeletons flattened and their legs splayed out to the sides, squeezing through gaps faster than you can say, "Was that a cockroach?"
- They can run full spread across a table, run over the side, and continue running at full speed on the bottom.
- They can hold their breath for more than 40 minutes.
- Some cockroach nymphs are so small, they can fit through the holes in a wall outlet.
The use of pest control products is required for the control of cockroaches. These products should be selected and applied by a licensed pest management professional.
Cockroach Control
If you're struggling with cockroaches, reach out to Alta Pest Control. We use eco-friendly solutions and EPA-approved products to ensure effective pest control without compromising the health of your family. We can help you get the results you're looking for.
