This may be hard to believe, but insects can be just as dangerous as animals. In some cases, they are actually even more deadly. Their often small size is no indication of the size of the problems they can cause. Bugs commonly carry bacteria that can spread illnesses to humans. Some species of pests can also directly transmit diseases. When it comes to the pests in Phoenix, cockroaches are an extremely icky and dangerous threat.
Cockroaches are gross, plain and simple. When they find their way into our homes, they can contaminate surfaces and food with harmful bacteria that can make you and your family members sick. Not only are cockroaches dangerous, but they are also a challenge to keep out because they can squeeze through small cracks, crevices, and gaps that we may not even notice if we aren't actively looking for them. Furthermore, roaches can reproduce rather rapidly meaning a small problem can grow into an out-of-control infestation very quickly. You may come across the signs of a cockroach infestation before you ever spot a roach though, especially since they are nocturnal. Knowing what the three key clues to spotting a cockroach infestation are and how you can prevent Phoenix cockroaches can go a long way in aiding your pest control efforts!
Sign #1: Finding Waste
The two prevailing species in our area are German and oriental cockroaches; both these cockroaches have reputations for causing problems in local homes and businesses. Adult German roaches are 1/2 to 5/8 of an inch long with brown or tan bodies. These roaches do have wings, though they don't fly often. Meanwhile, their black young are wingless and cannot fly. German cockroaches in both stages of development have horizontal black bands on the back of their heads which can be used to help identify them.
Oriental cockroaches are one of the larger species of cockroaches at around an inch long and are a reddish-brown color. These roaches also have wings, but they cannot fly. An alternate nickname for the Oriental cockroach is "water bugs" as these roaches are highly reliant on water and moisture. This dependence causes them to gravitate towards damp areas such as in gutters, around storm drains or water pipes, or other similar areas. If they don't find their way into your home through your drains, they'll get inside through windows, doors, and foundation gaps. Once inside, they will settle into damp, dark, and undisturbed areas such as under sinks and in cabinets, wall voids, basements, or trash cans.
Additional cockroach traits that will be helpful to know about are:
- They gather near natural matter, organic debris, and water
- They hide in cracks and crevices in concrete
- They nest in places that are difficult to reach
As a cockroach problem develops and matures, evidence of their presence in the form of waste will be left around your home. Their fecal matter may range in appearance from grainy to solid circular droppings and vary in color and length. If you look, you are bound to find specks in the areas that they congregate. When these insects reach adulthood, they will shed their skins or exoskeletons; finding these shed skins is another telltale sign of a roach infestation.
Cockroach excrement, urine, and saliva contains bacteria that can cause illnesses such as gastroenteritis, salmonella, and other viruses as well as trigger allergic reactions; their bodies are also covered in harmful pathogens that could make you and your family sick.
Sign #2: Discovering Eggs And Casings
All cockroach eggs don't look the same, but most are about an inch long. These eggs and egg casings are usually found in basements, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Sign #3: Smelling Bad Odors
An offensive, musty odor may develop in your home if cockroaches are present due to the pheromones and secretions that they emit.
Cockroach Prevention And Overson Pest Control Roach Extermination
Following the tips listed below will discourage cockroach populations:
- Seal holes in utilities, foundations, windows, and doors
- Fix moisture problems and leaks right away
- Attach sweeps to all doors that connect to the outdoors
- Mow the lawn and trim bushes and trees regularly.
- Plant flowers and plants two feet away from your home
- Flush out gutters and drains on a routine basis and make sure they are in good repair
- Store food and garbage in airtight containers
- Take out the trash, wash dishes, and vacuum as regularly as possible
Don’t bother trying to use storebought insecticides to get rid of cockroaches. These types of products tend to make issues worse by causing the roaches to scatter throughout the home rather than stay in one isolated area. If these DIY products aren’t ineffective, they are typically too hazardous to use, especially indoors. At Overson Pest Control, we use industrial-grade cockroach control treatments that won't put your or your family at risk. Our highly trained technicians will find and address any affected area as well as any entry points or vulnerabilities that cockroaches could use to invade your home again in the future for long-lasting results you can trust. Get started with a free quote when you call us at Overson Pest Control today!
Have questions about our other Phoenix pest control services? Feel free to give us a call to discuss your pest control needs. We'd be happy to help!