Cockroaches

Cockroach Identification & Prevention

 

What are cockroaches?

Cockroaches are resilient, adaptable pests that are difficult to keep out of our homes and business. Cockroaches are scavengers and will feed on almost anything including most of the things we eat. Their rapid reproduction rate allows cockroaches to establish large populations in and around our homes very quickly.

The cockroach has an oval-shaped body, long antennae, and the ability to run very quickly. While most species have wings, they are not adept fliers. Thousands of cockroaches live worldwide, outside and away from people, but a handful of species have become a significant pest issue in and around our homes and businesses.

Three of the most common species of cockroaches living in the Phoenix area and across the country include the following:

  • German cockroach
  • American cockroach
  • Oriental cockroach

Are cockroaches dangerous?

Cockroaches pose significant threats to people and our properties; they are dangerous pests and should never be tolerated on our properties. Besides contaminating our food with their excrement and saliva, they will contaminate counters, tables, dishes, and utensils. Cockroaches carry a variety of bacteria and other pathogens that cause illnesses in people on their bodies. In addition, a cockroach infestation can create an unpleasant odor and cause damage personal items like furniture, rugs, and clothing.

Why do I have a cockroach problem?

Like most of the pests living in Arizona, cockroaches gravitate to our yards and homes because of the moisture they provide. Most cockroaches have high moisture needs, and things like leaking pipes, hoses, clogged gutters, and dripping air conditioners offer the water these pests need to thrive.

Food odors also attract cockroaches to our indoor and outdoor spaces. Things like open trash cans, compost piles, pet food bowls, dirty dishes, outdoor eating areas, and grills will alert cockroaches that your property is somewhere they want to be.

Besides finding their way to your property on their own, many cockroaches, and especially German cockroaches, get carried inside accidentally in things like boxes, bags, furniture, and appliances.

Where will I find cockroaches?

German cockroaches are primarily indoor pests. Their small size and dark color make it easy for these pests to live in our homes without our knowledge until their populations become too large to overlook. These roaches primarily live in the kitchen areas of the homes and businesses they invade.

American cockroaches are large reddish-brown roaches that mainly live outside in gardens, on trees, and in mulch. Like other roaches, the draw of moisture and food is too much for them to resist, and they often end up in our homes. Inside, they are primarily found in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

Oriental cockroaches are shiny black roaches that prefer to live where there is a lot of moisture or standing water present. Outside these roaches gather around drains, sewers, downspouts, and garbage piles. Inside our homes, they gather near drains, sinks, tubs, sump pumps, and around leaky pipes.

How do I get rid of cockroaches?

The best way to protect your property from invading cockroaches is to partner with a professional. At Overson Pest Control, we can help you to take back your property from cockroaches with our effective pest control treatments, our commitment to customer service, and over ten years of combined experience!

We care about our customers and understand how stressful it is to learn cockroaches have found their way into your home. We will act fast and work with you to solve your property’s unique pest problems. With our services backed by a 100% guarantee and unlimited free re-services, you can trust that we'll rid your property of cockroaches and help prevent their return.

To learn more about working together and implementing our quality pest control services to protect your Phoenix area home or business from cockroaches, reach out to us today!

How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?

In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, protect your property from cockroaches using the following prevention tips:

  • Repair leaky outdoor fixtures, clogged gutters, and dripping hoses that provide the moisture that Arizona roaches are looking for.
  • Seal holes in your home’s exterior.
  • Keep covers on vents and drains leading into your home.
  • Place weatherstripping around windows and doors.
  • Inspect cardboard boxes, furniture, potted plants, and other things that have been outside for cockroaches before bringing them into your home.
  • Keep lids on indoor and outdoor trash cans.
  • Maintain outdoor eating areas by keeping them free of food debris.
  • Maintain good sanitation habits in kitchen and dining areas.

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