Most people have encountered a cockroach one time or another in their lives. For some, it seems to be a regular occurrence to bump into a cockroach every time the lights go off for 10 minutes. But though you may know what a cockroach is, there may be a few questions you had concerning cockroaches, and today, we at A-Tex Pest Management would like to take the opportunity to answer the most frequently asked questions.
Facts About Cockroaches
Q: What are the basic of cockroaches?
A: Cockroaches shy away from most light sources, as they are nocturnal. It doesn’t take much space for a cockroach to squeeze through; the width only about that of the coin is all they need. They are able to go without food for nearly a month and about a week without water. A cockroach’s lifespan is only about a year, and a fun fact, they can breathe without their heads. Cockroaches multiply quickly, to give you an idea females only get to mate once, and are pregnant for the rest of their lives, birthing between 300-400 babies during that time.
Q: Where are roaches found?
A: Roaches are not only subject to filthy homes, but found in the most immaculate buildings. Cockroaches call home anywhere there is a convenient food and water source. Thriving on sugar, grease, and other food remnants, they are found anywhere in a home, cupboards, drains, nooks and crannies.
Q: Can cockroaches carry disease?
A: Cockroaches have been linked to salmonella, dysentery, gastroenteritis, asthma, hepatitis virus, and even typhoid fever are some of the more serious diseases carried by cockroaches. Cockroaches can also trigger allergies in many people. The World Health Organization advises against crushing roaches, for reasons of hygiene. Squashing cockroaches can spread bacteria into the environment that can lead to asthma, allergies and illnesses.
Q: How are cockroaches getting into my home?
A: As previously mentioned, roaches do not need a lot of space to squeeze their bodies through, simple cracks and holes can invite them in, plumbing pipes, vents, sewers, even packages can bring in cockroaches into your home.
Q: Where should I start looking for cockroaches on my property?
A: Cockroaches are prone to dark, damp places with plenty of nesting materials, food and water to call home. Check under sinks, sewer lines, around trash, basements, garages, and so on.
Q: How do I prevent cockroaches?
A: Apply the following:
– Routinely give your home a meticulous cleaning, vacuuming the obvious and less obvious places. Go through the clutter and keep the clutter under control.
– Put away all food when you are done using it and clean and sanitize all surfaces where food was prepared, and be sure to tightly seal pantry items.
– Fix leaky pipes and faucets, and avoid leaving any standing water anywhere.
– Keep trash bins covered and periodically cleaned.
– Have a periodic pest control professional spray the appropriate areas of your home.
Cockroach Pest Inspections, Treatment, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park Texas
If you have a cockroach infestation, contact A-Tex Pest Management and our specialists will assess the situation and find the most optimal solution for effective extermination. With our pest management maintenance we can keep cockroaches out. Call us today to get started!
