Cockroaches

What are cockroaches?

Cockroaches are common pests that, unfortunately, can commonly be found invading homes and businesses throughout Florida. These pests have flattened, oval-shaped bodies, six legs that are covered in spines, are typically black, brown, or reddish-brown in color, and have long antennae that are usually the same length as their bodies. Many cockroach species have wings, but not all of them are able to fly. Additionally, cockroach nymphs look similar to the adults, but are much smaller in size and are wingless.

Two of the most common roaches that can be found causing problems for home and business owners in Florida include:

German Cockroaches
German Cockroaches have two black stripes running horizontally down behind their heads, which help in identifying this species and are much smaller than American cockroaches, at about 1/2 an inch in length. In addition, this roach species is commonly found inside homes and businesses, especially in restaurants.

American Cockroaches
American cockroaches are quite large, have a distinctive yellowish-colored figure-8 pattern located behind their heads, and both the males and females are strong fliers. In addition, these cockroaches are commonly referred to as palmetto bugs because they are often found hiding underneath palm tree leaves.

Are cockroaches dangerous?

Yes, cockroaches are considered dangerous due to the many health threats they present. When they invade, these pests can contaminate food sources, food prep areas, dishes, utensils, and other surfaces in residential and commercial properties with their saliva and excrement. Both German and American cockroaches spread many harmful diseases including dysentery, salmonellosis, gastroenteritis, and E. coli. In addition, their feces, saliva, and shed skins can trigger allergies and asthma attacks, especially in children.

Why do I have a cockroach problem?

Cockroaches often make their way into homes, businesses, and other buildings on their own while they are foraging for food sources. Some common ways they find their way inside include through cracks and crevices in foundations and exterior walls, through spaces underneath doors and around windows, through open windows and doors, and through drains and vents. However, cockroaches are also often accidentally introduced into homes inside deliveries and in used furniture or appliances.

Where are cockroaches commonly found?

Unlike some cockroach species, German roaches actually prefer to live indoors and are commonly found hiding out in warm, dark, humid, and secluded places that are located near their primary food sources.

Some of the most common nesting sites for these cockroaches include:

• Behind appliances (stoves, refrigerators, etc.)

• Underneath kitchen and bathroom cabinets

• In and around laundry rooms and pantry areas

American cockroaches, on the other hand, prefer to live outside and can commonly be found on trees (particularly palm trees), in garden areas, underneath mulch, and in sewers and drains. However, these pests often find their way into our homes while foraging for food or when the weather outside becomes too hot or dry for them to live comfortably outdoors. When living inside a home, American cockroaches are likely to take up residence in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms, and other similar areas.

How do I get rid of cockroaches?

The best way to find and eliminate the cockroaches that are living in your home is to partner with a pest control professional. Here at Reynolds, our professionals will complete a pest analysis and evaluate points of access on your property. Based on our findings, we will create a treatment plan to eliminate the infestation and prevent future problems with cockroaches and other common household invaders. For quality residential and commercial cockroach control in Florida, reach out to us at Reynolds Pest Management!

How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?

Preventing cockroaches from invading your home or business can be a difficult task, but the following tips can help to deter them from your property:

• Place a mesh cover over all the vents leading into your home.

• Make sure weather stripping is installed around all exterior windows and doors.

• Seal spaces found around wires, cables, pipes and other utilities entering your home.

• Repair any leaky pipes and fixtures in and around your home.

• Use dehumidifiers to reduce humidity levels inside your home.

• Store all food in air-tight containers or in the refrigerator.

• Quickly wipe up any food or drink spills and vacuum your home’s floor regularly.

• Inspect packages for cockroaches before bringing them into your home.

• Thoroughly inspect used furniture or appliances for signs of cockroaches.