Cockroaches
Periplaneta
Common Types of Roaches in North Carolina
While there are several thousand species of cockroaches found throughout the world, there are only a handful that are considered problematic in North Carolina. Read on to learn more about the most common types of roaches in the Tar Heel State.
American Cockroaches
The American cockroach’s claim to fame is that it is the largest species of house invading cockroach found in the U.S. They have the potential to o grow to more than 3 inches in length; however, they are more likely grow to between 1 ½ and 2 inches in length. American roaches are dark, reddish brown in color, with a lighter color outlining their body, and have a yellowish colored figure-8 pattern located behind their head. Both female and male American roaches have fully developed wings that are longer than their body, and both are capable of flight.
Brown-Banded Cockroaches
Adult brown-banded cockroaches grow to about ½ of an inch in length. They are light brown in color, and as their name suggests they have very distinctive banding going across their wings. Females have a shorter and stouter body shape than the males and while males are good flyers, females are not capable of flight.
Oriental Cockroaches
Oriental roaches are often referred to as water bugs because like to live in places that are very damp, dark, and cool. Oriental roaches are a fairly large species, adults grow to about one inch in length; their bodies are smooth and shiny black in color. They emit a very powerful, musty, foul smelling odor. Both sexes have wings but neither is capable of flying.
German Cockroaches
The German cockroach is the most common type of roach found invading homes and businesses. They are very invasive, squeezing their bodies through the tiniest of cracks to invade structures. Adult German cockroaches grow to between ½ and 5/8th of an inch in length. Their flat bodies are light brown or tan in color and have two distinctive black stripes running horizontally down behind their head. While both female and male German roaches have wings, they rarely fly. Instead they are very fast runners and that’s how they travel.
Are cockroaches dangerous?
Yes, roaches are dangerous. They introduce and spread viruses, bacteria and parasites they’ve picked up on their bodies when roaming through very unsanitary places such as garbage piles, sewers, and drains. When kitchen surfaces, plates, utensils, food, and other items become contaminated the risk for diarrhea, dysentery, salmonella poisoning, and other serious health concerns increase. Shed skins and feces from roaches can also trigger asthma attacks in some individuals especially children and those with compromised health.
Why do I have a cockroach problem?
Cockroaches infest homes and businesses because they provide everything needed to survive, namely food, water, and a suitable environment for them to live in. Rooms that are often infested by roaches include kitchens and pantries, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements. They’re often found under large appliances, under sinks, and areas with moisture. If your dwelling or building has cracks in the foundation, openings around entry points, or other conditions that make entry possible, you’re likely to have a cockroach problem. Roaches are also introduced in bags, packages, and boxes.
How do you get rid of roaches?
If you discover a cockroach problem in your home or business, seek help right away. They are highly invasive pests that breed quickly so it won’t take long for a minor problem to become a full-blow infestation. At A-1 Pest Control, we offer effective cockroach control that is based on proven experience and modern practices. Our team of pest control pros are well-versed in roaches and have all the tools necessary to eliminate roaches. Contact us today to learn more!
How do you prevent cockroaches?
Here’s what A-1 Pest Control recommends for cockroach prevention:
- Install door sweeps on all exterior doors.
- Caulk all gaps found around windows and doors, especially ones that lead into the basement.
- Do not leave basement or garage doors open for a long period of time.
- Eliminate water sources like leaky pipes, faucets and fixtures.
- Make sure that gutters are working properly to direct water away from your home.
- Reduce humidity levels and correct moisture issues.
- Store food in air-tight containers or in the refrigerator. Never leave food out on counters or tables and clean up spills and crumbs right away.
- Remove trash from your home frequently.
- Do not allow dirty dishes to sit in sink for any length of time and never overnight.
- Inspect packages and used items for cockroaches before bringing them into your home.
- Implement a year-round pest control program to keep nasty roaches out of your home or business.
Helpful Cockroach Articles
How Are Cockroaches Getting Inside My NC Home?
Why Cockroaches Are More Than Just A Nuisance
The Hidden Dangers Of Cockroach Infestations
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