Cockroaches are historically among the most problematic pests for homes and businesses. Cockroaches are omnivorous scavengers with tremendous resiliency. One of the most common types in this region is the German cockroach, Blattella germanica (Linnaeus). The German cockroach thrives indoors in most parts of Florida, particularly in multi-family housing units.
German cockroaches prefer warm environments; once indoors, they often travel inside walls or into kitchens and bathrooms. In addition to spreading germs, German cockroaches proliferate rapidly, and minor intrusions may soon develop into full-blown infestations.
Do German cockroaches bite or sting humans? Although not capable of stinging, cockroaches could bite humans. Biting incidents are sporadic but could create skin irritation and swelling.
How long do German cockroaches live? Female German cockroaches generate sacs of generally more than 20 eggs called oothecae. During their lifetime, the females often create four or more of these egg sacs, making German cockroaches one of the species with the highest reproductive capacities. Adults commonly have a life span that exceeds 100 days.
Have you noticed what appears to be German cockroaches in your home? Local property owners who suspect these concerns should consult with a Tampa pest control company regarding the best available options for German cockroach treatment.
How To Identify German Cockroaches?
What does a German cockroach look like? Usually measuring about ½ of an inch in length, the German cockroach is much smaller than the American cockroach, which allows these pests to infiltrate structures through very tiny openings. Young German cockroaches (nymphs) appear either dark brown or black and lack wings.
The adults appear in a lighter shade of brown or tan and have two distinctive dark stripes extending from behind their heads. German cockroaches have six legs and long antennae that provide excellent sensory capabilities. Males typically have a thinner body style than the more stout and rounded females.
Can German cockroaches fly? Despite having wings, German cockroaches are generally incapable of flight. German cockroaches' wings allow for “gliding” or easing their fall from heights.
German Cockroaches And Food-Borne Pathogens
As with most home-invading pests, German cockroaches routinely have exposure to trash, parasites, and other sources of germs. Food represents a vehicle that may promote pathogens. Some of the food-borne illnesses and other health-related concerns associated with these pests include:
- As they travel indoors, German cockroaches contaminate food and surfaces and generate trails of excrement.
- Some of the known food-borne pathogens that German cockroaches carry include E.coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus.
- As omnivores, German cockroaches eat most food humans eat, in addition to soap, glue, and other insects.
- When larger indoor infestations develop, many individuals experience allergic reactions from accumulations of feces, saliva, and skin.
Foods exposed to cockroaches should always be promptly disposed of to avoid illness, and surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to remove any germs.
Step-By-Step Guide To Getting Rid Of German Roaches
As largely nocturnal creatures, cockroaches often remain hidden during the day and emerge after dark. Property owners should move appliances and furniture away from the walls and check for cockroaches. Keep in mind that although they often hide in hard-to-reach places, cockroaches will usually remain within a short distance from food sources. Look for tiny, dark specks of excrement, and remember to check below sinks and in laundry room areas.
Once a cockroach infestation develops, completely ousting these pests becomes increasingly difficult. Property owners should speak with a licensed local pest control professional regarding an inspection.
How Professional Cockroach Control Can Help
Homeowners throughout the Tampa region can depend on the experts with Haskell Termite & Pest Control for safely and effectively treating problems involving a host of unwanted pests. We encourage you to contact our team today for additional information.