There are three major cockroach species that dominate many parts of America and can be found throughout Texas homes as well. These major species are the American cockroach, German cockroach and Oriental cockroach. A-Tex Pest Management will share a little more about these common cockroach species and how you can protect your home from them.
Flying American Cockroaches
American cockroaches are one of the largest species of cockroaches found in America. Their size can range from 1 inch to 2 inches in length. They are equipped with wings and can fly short distances with very little grace. The nymphs are wingless and develop wings as they mature. American cockroaches are dark reddish brown or bronze in color. They are known for their nasty habit of flying from tree tops and into doors. If those doors are open, they’ll come in as they are drawn to the light.
German Cockroach Infestations
The German cockroach is a smaller species of roach. They only reach about ½ an inch to 5/8 of an inch in size. They too have wings but aren’t known to fly. Researchers claim they can fly short distances but that they prefer to run. They are a light brown to golden tan color and have two distinct stripes coming from the eyes and going down the head or thorax. The nymph is not born with wings. They will develop them as they mature. They are known for invading homes by hitchhiking in boxes and bags.
Are Oriental Cockroaches Harmful?
Oriental cockroaches are a little larger species of cockroach that reach up to an inch in size. The males are the only ones with wings. The wings are short and only cover half of their body. They are black or a dark reddish brown with a shiny, almost greasy texture. The nymphs are two toned with half of their body red or orange and the other half black. They are known as the water bug and are often found in shallow water and crawling up pubic drains and sewer lines. Like all cockroach species, Oriental cockroaches are considered dangerous due to their proclivity to spread harmful bacteria, disease and allergens.
What Keeps Cockroaches Away?
Controlling cockroaches can be difficult, depending on your environment. Cockroaches thrive in humid, moist climates and are known to feed on starches and plant matter. For proper cockroach control you will first want to control them from outside. Start by making sure the yards are well kept and avoid clutter, especially near or around the home. Garbage disposal areas should be kept clean and garbage cans properly sealed. Keep trees and plant matter trimmed and remove all debris. Your next battle will be keeping them from coming into your home. You will need to seal all cracks around the exterior of the home. Windows and doors should be checked for weaknesses as well. Make sure the window screens are in good condition and secured. Additionally, make sure all outdoor plumbing isn’t leaking, which draws in pests. Inside the home should be kept clean and clutter free. Avoid leaving dishes in the sink for too long and remove all unwanted food or crumbs. Stored food should be kept in air tight containers to prevent contamination or access. Place drain screens over all of the drains in the home. The oriental cockroach is known to enter homes using drains. You will want to protect your home with the proper pesticide that is affective against cockroaches.
Cockroach Pest Inspections, Treatment Control & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park Texas
When protecting your home from cockroaches, the aid of a professional pest control service will be your greatest defense. To help control pests including cockroaches around your home or business, contact A-Tex Pest Management today.
