Throughout Pennsylvania there are a handful of cockroaches skittering across the state. Cockroaches are known to negatively impact the locals. Causing destruction, and spreading a whole lot of germs, bacteria, and diseases, cockroaches are notoriously known for being gross and filthy creatures, with good reason considering the nasty things they will eat and traverse through. Though your home may be kept in pristine and tidy condition, roaches can still make themselves known. One of the most common cockroaches is the American Cockroach. Stewart Termite & Pest Control would like to take the time to relate some facts and information regarding the American Cockroach.
How Do I Identify an American Cockroach?
For starters, the American cockroach is probably the biggest species in the US. They can get between 1 ½” and 2” in length. They range in various shades of brown from reddish brown to mahogany and just behind their head is a yellow band mark. By adulthood, American cockroaches are equipped with wings, which they rarely use. Their flight is often perceived as awkward and clumsy, and they can simply run faster. They have been clocked at 3 miles per hour, which is the human equivalent of running 210 miles per hour. Their speed is useful when coming out at night and an unsuspecting homeowner flicks the lights on. American roaches will dart quickly out if sight, slipping through the tiniest of cracks to invade threats.
How Long Do Cockroaches Live?
Once American cockroaches reach adulthood, they can live for about a year if they manage to survive during their lifespan. Within that year, females can spawn approximately 150 hatchlings. The American cockroach has three life cycles; egg, nymph, and adult. They will hatch after 6-8 weeks, following a 6-12 month period to grow into adulthood. During the nymph stage they do not have wings; they will evolve when they reach adulthood.
What is a Cockroaches Favorite Food?
The American cockroach’s diet is not specific, as they will eat nearly anything. They are prone to decaying organic matter for example; meats, plants, pet food, beer, cheese, leather, cosmetics, paper products, glue, hair, soiled clothing, other insects, and are partial to fermented fruit. American cockroaches need water but can live without it for a couple weeks. Roaches will reside with a water source nearby, as they much prefer to be in close proximity. American cockroaches will often be found near sewers and drains.
Where Do American Cockroaches Nest?
American cockroaches are attracted to dark, warm, and damp places to call home. Being inclined to find a consistent water source, they may be lingering around your home along the foundation, under porches, in crawl spaces and in dark cracks and crevices, if they slink into your home, it is usually done in the cold months when they are looking for warmth. Being that they do prefer darkness, they are nocturnal and have a tendency to avoid the light.
Cockroach Control
If American cockroaches are found in your home or property, or any other pest for that matter, Stewart Termite & Pest Control has the experience and expertise to exterminate the infestation, and offer maintenance programs to keep them out of your home. Call us today to schedule your appointment!