We’ve all seen cockroaches in our homes at some point or another. And it’s no surprise that they sneak into our homes for a regular supply of food and water. These tiny creatures are not just ugly, but are also carriers of germs and bacteria which easily spread diseases. If you’ve taken a closer look, cockroaches vary in terms of their size, color, and hiding spots. Read on to learn more.
Here’s a Look at the 4 Types of Cockroaches:
- American Cockroaches
American cockroaches are the largest species found in the United States. At about 2-inches long, they are reddish-brown will yellow markings behind the head. They usually live in damp areas like basements, sewers, and often near pipes and drains. They can also be found in food storage areas and are especially active at temperatures above 70 degrees. - Oriental Roaches
Oriental roaches are shiny black or dark brown and are about an inch in length. They are found in the Northern regions of the United States. Due to their preferences for damp preferences like sewers and pipes, they are sometimes called ‘water bugs’. But, you may also find them outside in leaf piles and under firewood as they prefer slightly cooler temperatures. - German Cockroaches
German cockroaches grow to be between half an inch to a full inch in length. They are light brown in color with two dark stripes down their back. Found all over the world, they are the most common species of cockroaches. German cockroaches have been linked with the spread of disease. And they are known to trigger allergies and asthma, especially in children. They prefer warm and humid environments and often live in kitchens and bathrooms, close to food and water sources. - Wood Roaches
Wood roaches resemble American roaches in appearance. They have a flat, oval body, with long antennae, spiny legs, and are chestnut brown in color. Wood roaches are attracted to light which sets them apart from other roaches. Unlike other cockroaches, they do not survive inside homes. In wood-dominant areas, these cockroaches are found in headlights of cars at dusk. They are most active in the winters and can be found in firewood.
Learn How to Get Rid of Roaches:
- Store Away Food Sources
Dry foods should be tightly sealed and stored away in plastic bags and containers. Don’t leave them lying around on kitchen counters, sinks, or buckets. - Clean up Food and Liquid Spillage
Food debris should not be left lying around either overnight over after meal preparation. Clean it all up immediately to leave no opportunity for cockroaches to come by for a visit. If you see the dustbin loaded with rubbish and leftovers, never let it rot all week. - Get Rid of Pet Food
Once your pet is done eating, make sure to clear up whatever mess that remains immediately. Don’t wait till the next morning. Litter trays should be cleaned on a regular basis and disposed off well before it attracts pests. - Rinse cans and bottles
Recycling bins accept unused cans, bottles, and plastics for a reason. Collectors in the neighborhood expect you to be responsible enough to dispose off materials that are at least washed. Clean bottles and cans keep the pests away. - De-Clutter
Old stacks of newspapers, magazines and unused cardboard boxes should be de-cluttered at regular intervals. Once cockroaches know it’s safe to move around, they release an aggregation pheromone in their droppings to let others know they have found a safe shelter. - Seal Entry Points
Put a seal on all entry points to prevent more cockroaches from moving in and out. Hot spots for cockroaches include drains, pipes, and common walls. Don’t miss small cracks around skirting boards and areas behind electrical sockets. They should always be plugged in to prevent an additional potential hiding area or sealed if not used regularly.
Make sure you know what cockroach species live in your area and take necessary steps to keep your home clean and well-maintained. If you suspect you have a cockroach infestation, call a residential pest control that can effectively identify the species and treat your home.