Just about everyone knows what a cockroach looks like; they’re everywhere. While it’s often jokingly stated that the only thing to survive a nuclear war would be a cockroach, the idea is valid – they are real survivors.
Once they move in, it can be very hard to get rid of them. Cockroaches adapt and multiply very quickly. When cockroaches infest a home, they are rarely seen. Cockroaches are nocturnal and can live up to a month with little or no food. They can also survive by eating book bindings, furniture, glue, soap, dead insects, shoe linings, and more. It’s important to contact a pest control professional quickly if you see them in your home or business.
There are over 4,000 different varieties of cockroaches, but only about thirty of them can coexist with humans. This number can be further reduced to the four most common species found in homes and businesses in America: the American, German, Asian, and Oriental cockroaches. They vary in size from about 1/2" (German), to up to 2" (American). In the U.S., the most common species in homes is the German cockroach.
Cockroaches increase in population at a very rapid rate. The female German cockroach lives about 200 days. In her lifetime, she will produce between four to six egg cases. Each egg case she lays includes thirty to fifty eggs. German cockroaches are clearly able to thrive.
Seeing a cockroach makes you feel like your place is dirty. Contrary to popular belief, a cockroach infestation is not necessarily an indication of poor hygiene. However, an untidy environment will make it more difficult to get rid of them. The presence of cockroaches can also lead to health problems, including asthma in children.
Some DIY tips to help prevent cockroach infestations:
1. Leaky sinks and standing water can attract cockroaches – fix and dry these areas immediately
2. Uncovered food will attract them – keep all food covered and in glass or plastic containers with airtight covers
3. Clean beneath your stove, and above and beneath your refrigerator – the warmth attracts them
4. Be sure your garbage is closed and clean and taken out regularly
5. Seal any cracks in your bathroom – around the tub and toilet, if there is a leak the moisture will attract the cockroaches
6. Clean – food crumbs on the floor, counter, or in the couch cushions will attract pests such as cockroaches
7. Do not leave dirty dishes/utensils in the sink – cockroaches entering from plumbing will find this first
Eliminating cockroaches from your home/business is not a DIY project. If you see one cockroach, chances are there’s many others hiding out around the building. Calling in a professional is the best thing you can do when it comes to eliminating cockroaches.
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