With over 4,500 species of cockroaches found throughout the world, everyone has had the opportunity to cross paths with these little grotesque insects. Though there is quite an astonishing number of species, only 30 of them are actually considered pests to people. Pennsylvania isn’t immune to these nasty creepers having primarily three common cockroach species infesting homes, businesses, and property grounds. In addition to American and Oriental cockroaches, also found here is the German cockroach and like many other roaches, they are destructive and a threat to your health. At this time, we at Stewart Termite and Pest Control would like to take the opportunity to share some basic information regarding the German cockroach.
Why Do I Have Roaches in My Clean House?
Not only German cockroaches common in Pennsylvania, but they are one of the most common species found throughout the United States. Needing only a gap 3/8” wide to gain access to buildings, they can quickly multiply; producing six generations within a year’s time. Homes provide everything a cockroach needs to survive; food, water and shelter.
Identification of German Cockroaches
Where cockroaches in general are very similar in appearance, share many of the same habits, diets, and preferred environments, the different species have unique characteristics as well. For example the German cockroach, varying in color from tan to light brown, have a distinctive marking of two, almost parallel stripes across their backs that start behind their heads. As an insect, the German cockroach has antennae and six legs that sprout from oval shaped bodies. These roaches average ½” – 5/8” long and though they have wings, they are flightless.
Where Do German Cockroaches Come from?
German cockroaches are known to hitchhike to new areas; often through second hand appliances, drink cartons, cardboard boxes, and grocery bags and will still infiltrate homes and business through the gaps, ventilation, sewer lines, and other means. Eating nearly anything they can find, these omnivorous roaches are also known to eat toothpaste, glue, and soaps in addition to human scraps, decaying matter, garbage, and nearly anything else. Like most pests that come into home or businesses, they look for convenient food and water sources and prefer the warm and humid areas. German cockroaches typically infest bathrooms and kitchens.
Diseases & Dangers of Cockroaches to Humans
German cockroaches are not only startling and a nuisance, but they also pose a health risk. They induce allergy and respiratory reactions and spread diseases and illnesses. According to medical studies, people are often suffering allergic reactions and asthma attacks because of the German cockroach, especially children being impacted the most. In addition to being the source of allergies and asthma problems, roaches have been documented and linked to at least 7 human pathogens, 6 species of parasitic worms, and at least 33 different strands of bacteria. They have a tendency to traverse through sewerage, decaying matter, and other such environments because of their nonchalant behavior. The result is that they pick up germs and bacteria on their spines of the legs and bodies, allowing them to easily contaminate the surfaces the scatter across, including the areas where food is prepared as well as food.
Cockroach Control & Extermination
To minimize infestations, keep the home well sealed with the help of weather stripping, caulk, and mesh coverings in the proper applications and practice exceptional sanitation. In addition to your efforts, call in the professionals of Stewart Termite and Pest Control to offer your home more protection from cockroach and other pest invasions.