What do German cockroaches look like?
German roaches are relatively small compared to American cockroaches. They typically measure 1/2 to 5/8 inch in length. These cockroaches are light brown to tan and have two dark, parallel stripes running from their heads to the base of their wings. Speaking of wings, this species has wings but rarely flies. Their wings cover their entire abdomen. German cockroaches have long, thread-like antennae that extend well beyond their bodies.
What attracts German cockroaches?
German cockroaches are attracted to warmth, moisture, and food sources. That's why they are often found in kitchens, bathrooms, and places with poor sanitation.
Where are German cockroaches found?
Indoors, search in tight or dark spaces. Inspect your kitchen, pantry, closets, and attic. In your kitchen, check underneath your oven, refrigerator, and sink first.
Outdoors, look for German cockroaches in your landscaping and underneath your back deck. You may also find them hiding underneath objects or in yard debris.
What do German cockroaches eat?
German cockroaches are omnivorous and will eat almost anything. Cardboard, paper, dead skin, hair, and fecal matter are potential food for these roaches. They'll also eat human food and pet food, even if it's decaying. Other insects are also a staple of their diet.
What are the health risks associated with German roaches?
German cockroaches can spread bacteria, causing food poisoning and other illness. They also trigger allergies and exacerbate asthma due to their presence and the allergens they produce.
How fast do German cockroaches reproduce?
German cockroaches are serious structure-infesting cockroaches, largely due to their reproductive rate. They reproduce incredibly fast - with each female capable of producing as many as 400 offspring in her lifetime.
Do German cockroaches spread quickly?
Yes, cockroach nymphs mature into adult cockroaches within a short period of time, allowing for continuous breeding and population growth. What's more, these bugs move easily between rooms, often traveling through plumbing and electrical conduits. They are also easily transported from property to property inside cardboard boxes and other belongings.
How do I know if I have German cockroaches?
Signs of a German cockroach infestation include, but are not limited to:
- Live adult cockroaches and nymphs (smaller versions of the adults)
- Egg cases, also called oothecae, which are small, brownish, and about 1/4 inch long.
- Droppings that resemble ground pepper or smear marks on surfaces.
- Shed skins that are discarded as roaches matures.
How do I get rid of German cockroaches?
Exterminating German cockroaches is not typically a DIY job. That's because they avoid treatments and have a naturally adaptable physiology that helps them survive exposure to control materials. Contact Evergreen Pest Solutions today! Our local pest control company offers home pest control services and commercial exterminating in Virginia that eliminate cockroaches, no matter how severe the infestation is.
How can I prevent German roaches from entering my home?
To prevent German cockroaches from infesting your home, we recommend the following prevention tips:
- Seal potential entry points.
- Regularly clean kitchen surfaces, floors, appliances, and other areas where food is prepared or consumed.
- Address areas of high humidity, especially bathrooms and laundry rooms.
- Fix damp crawl spaces.
- Fix leaks and other plumbing problems.
- Remove clutter in the garage, attic, closets, and other storage areas.
- Dispose of trash regularly and use bins with tight-fitting lids.
- Inspect second-hand items before you bring them into your house.
