Cockroach Identification & Prevention
What are cockroaches?
Cockroaches are some of the most common household pests people everywhere come into contact with, and you can find them in any populated area in the world. These highly adaptable and prolific breeders have flattened, oval-shaped bodies and six legs covered in spines. Their long antennae are usually the length of their bodies, and only those with fully developed wings can fly. Not only are they the most common but cockroaches are also some of the most dangerous pests that you can find in your home.
Some of the most common species of cockroaches living throughout our area of Southeast Florida include the following:
American cockroaches
The American cockroach is the largest cockroach species living in Florida; adults can grow up to two inches in length. American cockroaches have mahogany-colored bodies with a unique, yellow figure-8 marking behind their heads. They have fully developed wings and are capable of flight.
Brown-banded cockroaches
This small cockroach looks very similar to the German cockroach and also has a brown-colored body. They derive their name from the two dark bands with horizontal stripes that are visible when their wings close.
Florida woods cockroaches
This species of cockroach is also called the palmetto bug. They are large, wingless, and slow-moving cockroaches that are reddish-brown to black in color. Florida woods cockroaches prefer living outside, but are also often found living close to the perimeter of buildings.
German cockroaches
These small cockroaches are dark brown with two parallel bands running down their thoraxes. They are known for their quick movements and scatter quickly when disturbed; although adults have fully developed wings, they are incapable of flight. Like brown-banded cockroaches, German cockroaches are also regularly found living indoors. They are common invaders in homes and businesses, especially restaurants.
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How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?
Preventing problems with cockroaches on your Boca Raton or Southeast Florida property is a difficult task, but here are some steps you can take to help avoid an infestation:
- Place a barrier of crushed rock or stone between any mulch and the foundation of your property.
- Seal up openings in the foundation, exterior walls, and roofline of your home or business.
- Keep tight-fitting lids on outdoor trash cans and compost bins.
- Store food inside the refrigerator or in airtight containers.
- Place weather stripping around all doors and windows.
- Make sure all outdoor eating areas are free of food debris.
- Reduce moisture levels in and around your home or business.
- Cut overgrown bushes, shrubs, and trees away from the exterior of your property.
- Regularly wash dishes, vacuum, wipe down counters and tables and remove trash from your home.
- Always store pet food in plastic or metal containers with locking lids, and pick up pet food between feedings.
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How do I get rid of cockroaches?The best way to eliminate problems with cockroaches in your Southeast Florida home or business is to partner with an experienced professional. At Pest-Aside, we offer the residential and commercial pest control services needed to get rid of cockroaches and other common Florida pests at an affordable price. We are 100% committed to our customers and their pest control needs. To learn more about our pest control services, contact Pest-Aside today!
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Where will I find cockroaches?
Typical outdoor nesting locations for cockroaches include compost bins, garbage bins, drains, mulch, sewers, and woodpiles. Inside, you can find them in damp, dark areas near food sources. Basements, bathrooms, crawlspaces, and kitchens are all places cockroaches will hide in your home or business. Brown-banded cockroaches do differ in that they prefer warm dry locations; you’ll most likely find these cockroaches in the upper cabinets of kitchens.
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Why do I have a cockroach problem?Cockroaches are very adept at survival and live on properties that provide them easy access to food, water, and shelter. Cockroaches will move into your home through drains, spaces in exterior walls, vents, open doors and windows. Cockroaches also are brought into homes in bags, boxes, food deliveries, and used appliances or furniture. They can survive in almost any environment, and temperature-controlled homes with plenty of access to food sources make the perfect place for cockroaches to thrive.
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Are cockroaches dangerous?Cockroaches carry a vast number of bacteria, human pathogens, and parasites on their bodies and legs, allowing them to contaminate food and food surfaces in homes. They also transmit serious diseases such as E. coli and salmonella. They will ruin books, clothing, furniture, and other personal items with their excrement and chewing habits. Additionally, cockroaches can aggravate allergies and trigger asthma attacks, especially in young children.
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