Nobody wants cockroaches. Some pests like ants and houseflies are accepted as being unavoidable, since everybody gets a few ants or flies every now and then. But having cockroaches is different. When you have cockroaches in your home or business, your reputation suffers. There is a stigma of filthiness and lack of care. But the truth is, cockroaches are common pests and anyone can get them. And of all roaches that might infest your property, the German cockroach is the most common.
If you’re wondering about German cockroach control in Western Massachusetts, here’s what you need to know.
What Are German Cockroaches?
German cockroaches are small oval-shaped insects that range in size from 1/2 inch to 5/8 inch in size. They typically have a brown coloration with two black stripes running down their backs. Of the 4,000 plus species of cockroaches in the world, the German cockroach is the most common in human environments. They are attracted to moist environments like kitchens and bathrooms and love to eat human food waste.
A single female German cockroach can lay up to 40 eggs at time which will develop into adults within two months, dramatically increasing the size of an infestation. The scary part? Female cockroaches don’t even need a male to reproduce and can produce eggs on their own.
German cockroaches are smaller than other species, and their size along with their quick speed gives them an advantage when it comes to hiding. Whether it’s a home or business, they are a common invader.
What Happens When I Get German Cockroaches?
German cockroaches spread disease and contaminate everything they touch. They gather in filthy areas like garbage dumpsters and bathrooms and pick up dangerous pathogens. Dysentery, cholera, and typhoid fever are diseases all known to be contracted from cockroaches. Cockroaches are also known to cause allergies and can even trigger asthma attacks.
Cockroaches are difficult pests to eliminate. They’ve evolved to be especially durable and can survive attempts to squish them thanks to a sturdy exoskeleton. German cockroaches are quick on their feet and can be hard to catch. Not to mention, their flat bodies allow them to easily squeeze into cracks and slip out of reach. Many cockroaches are also resistant to common store-bought pesticides.
How To Prevent German Cockroaches
If you’ve seen German cockroaches on your property or are simply wondering how to prevent them in the first place, there are some simple prevention tips you can follow:
Clean up after yourself. Make sure that there is no food waste in the kitchen or living areas that can attract cockroaches. Clean up crumbs and spills and don’t leave any dirty dishes sitting in the sink.
Take the trash out. Keep your garbage outside of your property in tightly sealed bins.
Store food in secure containers. Cockroaches can often fit their way into cardboard boxes in your pantry. Try storing your food in plastic or metal containers with a tight-fitting lid.
Seal entry points. Check for gaps around pipes that lead into your home and seal with caulk. Replace any weather stripping on doors and windows that may be falling away.
Check your bags and boxes. German cockroaches are known to hitchhike into homes and businesses. Grocery bags, secondhand appliances, and cardboard boxes can all transport roaches into your home.
The Best Way To Get Rid Of German Cockroaches
Once cockroaches infest your property, they can be difficult to get rid of on your own. That’s why you need the expertise and experience of the professionals at American Pest Solutions. Since 1913, our technicians have been solving pest problems in Western Massachusetts. We will evaluate, treat, and protect your home or business from German cockroaches.
So, if you need help with cockroaches, get in touch with us today.