Cockroaches are one of the most common pests across North America, with more than 4,500 species worldwide. With so many different species ready to invade your home, you may be anxious to stop them from entering.
The best way to keep these pests away these pests is through prevention. Read on for some vital information on cockroaches in Dallas and how you can stop them.
Common Cockroaches in Dallas
There are four dominant species of cockroaches in North America. Here are some identifying features of the American, Brown-banded, German, and Oriental cockroaches.
American
The American cockroach is the largest species of cockroach in the United States. It also has the longest lifecycle, between one and two years. As a result, they are prone to creating long-standing infestations. Their large compound eyes are one of their most identifiable features, as is their size.
Brown-banded
As the name suggests, one can easily identify the brown-banded cockroach by the two small bands on its back. They’re more colorful than most cockroaches and one of the smaller species.
German
The German cockroach has two parallel dark streaks running down its back, making it easy to identify. These dark tan roaches are about a centimeter and a half long.
Oriental
Oriental cockroaches have a distinct, beetle-like appearance. These roaches are black or dark brown in color and glossy. They are also somewhat large relative to other cockroaches.
Problems Caused by Cockroaches
Cockroaches are more than just unsightly. They spread a variety of diseases, including more than 30 different kinds of bacteria. There are at least six different parasites that cockroaches can carry as well.
Cockroaches will contaminate anything that they walk or land on. Sanitize all surfaces that have had cockroaches on them. Discard any exposed food, as well.
Additionally, they’re dangerous for anyone with breathing complications. Shed skins and droppings may cause asthmatic reactions or trigger allergies. They are especially harmful to children or those with immune system difficulties.
What You Can Do About Cockroaches
The best way to stop cockroaches is to prevent them, as infestations are notoriously difficult to control. Consider the following tips to stop cockroaches:
- Cover trash bins
- Use air-tight containers for food products
- Fix any leaky pipes
- Remove clutter in home and yard
- Seal potential entry points and gaps with caulk
- Clean up messes as quickly as possible
- Install weather stripping and door sweeps
- Invest in high-quality pest control services
- Don’t leave out open pet food
As you may suspect, cleanliness is the most important prevention step. Cockroaches will seek out food and messes that are left out. Make sure that there are no entry points into your home, as you can stop them from finding a way inside.
Romney Pest Control can help you prevent pests as well. Our Dallas services include quarterly visits to make sure we catch any infestations before they can start.
How to Tell If You Have Cockroaches
Discovering if you have cockroaches might be obvious. You might see one or two, especially at night. It’s common for cockroaches to be out in the dark, particularly in the kitchen. They tend to scatter when lights click on.
If you aren’t spotting cockroaches, that doesn’t mean you don’t have them. A musty odor or droppings are usual signs. Shed skins and egg casings are common as well.
One place to check is behind and under large appliances. Moisture and warmth are great breeding qualities for cockroaches. Checking behind your fridge or oven often reveals cockroaches, if there are any to be found.
Cockroach Problem? We Can Help!
One of the worst things about cockroaches is how difficult they are to get rid of. They can become resistant to pesticides and insecticides. Because of this, DIY methods might be a waste of time and money.
If you have signs of an infestation, call for pest control experts. Our team offers many pest control solutions, including bed bugs, rodents, and of course, cockroaches. Contact us today to see how we can help you keep your Dallas home cockroach-free!
