To potentially spread diseases and ailments, cockroaches are a pest that run around the area across Texas. In the vicinity, there are quite a few cockroach species. Cockroaches are notorious for spreading diseases, ailments, and triggering allergies and asthma. Though there are several common cockroaches, we at A-Tex Pest Management would like to discuss the basics of Oriental Cockroaches.
Black Cockroach Looking Water Bug?
Believed to be of African origin despite the name, the Oriental roach is one of the larger species of cockroach. These cockroaches are commonly mistaken for water bugs since they have the smooth, dark bodies and prefer high-moisture environments. The method Oriental cockroaches gain entry is in the gaps beneath siding; access through piping, drains, and sewers; beneath doors and other weaknesses in the structure.
Oriental Cockroach Identification
Usually shiny black, though they can range from to a dark reddish-brown color; Oriental cockroaches have oval shaped bodies that average 1-inch length and have 6 legs that extend from the body along with antennae. Though quite different in appearance, the male and female cockroaches are both large in size. The last few abdominal segments of their bodies are exposed are the result of shortened, three-quarter-length wings, as these males are smaller. When compared to females, who are slightly larger, the female Oriental roach have no wings but have larger wing pads that shelter the first few segments of their bodies. Though they differ in appearance, neither females nor males can’t fly.
Signs of Oriental Cockroach Infestation
There are three telltale signs of an Oriental cockroach infestation that include smelling odors, egg capsules, and sightings.
Cockroach Egg Capsule: With an infestation egg capsules range from 5/16 inches to 25/64 inches in length. These egg cases hold approximately 16 eggs and are commonly dark brown or reddish in color.
Cockroach Odors: Homeowners can be alerted by the smell of an Oriental cockroach infestation. Oriental cockroaches secrete chemicals in order to communicate. These chemicals are commonly described as musty odors.
Roach Sightings: Particularly during the warmer months of the year Oriental Cockroaches come in and out of sewers and storm drains during the night and are discovered outside around landscaping beds outside and moist gutters. During the daylight hours the Oriental cockroaches congregate in dark, moist and undisturbed spaces.
How to Prevent Oriental Cockroaches in My House
For Oriental cockroach control the best advice is practicing good sanitation. To prevent oriental cockroaches from infesting a home, daily chores should be done consistently keeping the kitchen spotless and floors vacuumed. A dehumidifier to prevent excessive moisture should be considered. Using a silicone-based caulk on the exterior of the home, be sure to prioritize the cracks around pipes, windows, doors, and utility lines. Ventilate crawl space and safeguard all entrances around utility pipes to prevent moisture buildup. Since Oriental Cockroaches are very dependent on water, be sure to eliminate sources of standing water and divert water away from the home’s foundation by making certain you have properly sufficient splash blocks, downspouts, and gutters.
Cockroach Pest Inspections, Control & More in Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville, Cedar Park & Austin Texas
If you suspect Oriental roaches in your Austin, TX home, call A-Tex Pest Management and let our technicians eliminate them. We also include pest prevention maintenance to help keep these roaches out. Contact us today!
