San Antonio home and business owners can’t afford to procrastinate with pest management. The vast majority of pests are harmful to some degree: at the very least, they might sting, bite, or injure you, and at most, they may be capable of damaging buildings or possessions. Further, they can put your health on the line because many carry harmful germs and pathogens. Cockroaches are dreaded because of this.
The average person knows basic facts about cockroaches, but there’s always room to learn more. When you add onto your understanding of these insects, you’ll be better prepared to handle them. All cockroaches aren’t one and the same; there are important distinctions between each species that will influence how you can combat them. Learn more about the Oriental cockroach, and how Romney Pest Control can help you tackle them.
How Do Oriental Cockroaches Look & Behave? What Are the Risks?
Oriental cockroaches, sometimes called water bugs, are very common in San Antonio. In comparison to other species, they have a rather unique appearance: their compact bodies are glossy, and black or reddish-brown in color, and most are about an inch long. While they have wings, they’re unable to fly.
When they’re outdoors, they’ll surround mulch, plants, organic matter, and rocks. If they make it inside your home or business, they’ll do so through utilities, storm drains, and gutters. Holes around foundations, doors, and windows also provide passageways for them. You’ll find them around your sinks and trash, beneath cabinets, and in structural voids. Oriental cockroaches are nocturnal, so you definitely have an infestation if you spot one in daylight. Other key signs are:
Droppings: These bugs produce black or brown feces that are grainy. You’ll probably see the specks in drawers or floor corners, and on door frames and surfaces.
Eggs: Their reddish-brown or brown eggs are about 1/3 to 1/2 an inch long. Check bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Odors: These insects are particularly smelly, releasing communication chemicals and secretions with a musty scent, which can change the flavor and odor of contaminated food.
Regardless of the kind, all cockroaches are a medical threat. They live with significant amounts of illness-causing bacteria on their bodies and in their saliva, urine, and feces. Moreover, they have spines on their legs that germs and microbes can attach to. As they run through filthy sewers and plumbing, garbage, and other nasty elements, they’re picking up additional microbes. Because of this, they contaminate food, counters, and any other surfaces they come in contact with. You, your loved ones, customers, and/or employees could all be vulnerable to diseases like gastroenteritis and salmonellosis, as well as having asthma or allergy attacks triggered.
How Can Oriental Cockroaches Be Prevented?
You can reduce the chances of having a cockroach invasion by doing the following:
- Patch up openings near utilities, doors, windows, and foundations.
- Have moisture faults and plumbing issues repaired.
- Attach sweeps to all exterior doors.
- Regularly trim your grass and greenery. Set flowers and plants two feet or more from the property.
- Wash your gutters and drains often.
- Put your food and trash in containers with tight lids.
- Take out the garbage, vacuum, and wash dishes frequently.
What Can Romney Pest Control Do About Oriental Cockroaches?
We at Romney Pest Control have multiple service awards and a high rating with the Better Business Bureau for several reasons. Our plans are affordable and cover lots of local pests, including cockroaches. Our treatments are safe but powerful and specially designed. Last, but not least, our technicians are experienced and skilled. Shield your well-being from invasive and dangerous cockroaches! Call us today to request your free quote.