What to Know About Cockroaches?
Cockroaches are among the most common insects, along with one of the oldest species known to mankind. Based on fossil evidence, cockroaches are known to have been present on Earth for over 300 million years. Interestingly, some biologists consider insects, such as cockroaches to be one of the most successful groups of animals ever to inhabit this planet. One of the primary reasons behind the success of the cockroach is their adaptability. After all, they have been able to survive many changing environments over millions of years.
Additionally, there are approximately 3,500 species of cockroaches worldwide – about 55 species are found in the United States. Their presence in nearly every part of the world and a wide range of habitats demonstrates that cockroaches are truly an outstanding success story in nature. Unfortunately, many of the same outstanding biological characteristics which make them so successful, also make them one of the most difficult pests to manage. Cockroaches, especially the German cockroach, are the most commonly encountered and important household insect pests in much of the U.S.
What to Know About Cockroach Infestations?
While there are thousands of cockroaches around the world, only a few of the cockroach species found in the United States routinely enter and infest our dwellings. The most common of these are:
- German cockroach.
- American cockroach.
- Oriental cockroach.
- Brown-banded cockroach.
- Field cockroach.
- Asian cockroach.
Of these species, the first five represent 95% of all cockroach management in and around buildings. In some parts of the U.S., one species may be more prevalent than another species. Conversely, in other areas of the country, certain cockroaches may infest homes or other buildings but are generally found in very localized situations or under other unusual circumstances.
Finally, and most importantly for homeowners worried about a cockroach infestation is how to spot warning signs. First, keep in mind that cockroaches are always in search of water. As such, pooling and puddles outside of your home, leaking appliances and a dripping faucet may attract this species. Food and shelter are an added bonus. At one point in time, poor housekeeping and unclean conditions were once thought to attract roaches, but these are not the primary causes of an infestation. While regular cleaning and mopping decrease your chances of an infestation, other factors come into play:
- Roaches are known to hitch a ride on items brought into your home – for instance, second-hand furniture or a suitcase you left open in a hotel.
- They crawl through narrow cracks in search of water, food and shelter.
- They’re known to crawl through drain and sewer pipes.
- In a handful of cases, lights may attract flying cockroaches.
No matter the cause for their arrival, roaches multiply quickly, bringing bacteria and other diseases with them.
What to Know About Cockroach Extermination?
Cockroaches produce odorous secretions from various points in their bodies which can affect the flavor of various foods. When cockroach populations are high, these secretions may result in a characteristic odor in the general region of the infestation. Disease-producing organisms such as bacteria have been found in cockroach bodies. Although several digestive diseases have been transmitted experimentally, different forms of gastroenteritis appear to be the principal diseases transmitted by cockroaches. As a result, food contamination is one of the health problems caused by cockroaches. These health problems include food poisoning, dysentery, diarrhea, and other illnesses. The organisms causing these diseases are carried on the legs and bodies of cockroaches, and are deposited on food and utensils as cockroaches forage. They also carry a wide variety of protozoans and other microorganisms inside their bodies, some of which may occasionally be involved in the spread of disease.
Additionally, cockroach excrement and cast skins also contain a number of allergens, to which many people exhibit allergic responses such as skin rashes, watery eyes and sneezing. For the most part, however, cockroaches usually are not associated with severe illnesses or disease outbreaks, there are dangers of a cockroach infestation.
Finally, cockroaches have the potential to transmit disease not only by walking on any food you are about to eat but also by walking on utensils used to prepare food. With this knowledge, we believe it is unacceptable for any restaurant, café, food producer, landlord, or private dwelling to allow cockroaches to be present.
With over 35 years of experience, the Eliminate ‘Em pest control and extermination providers understand how unsettling and disruptive a cockroach infestation can be. Consequently, as soon as we hear from you, we will start the evaluation process, which will be followed shortly thereafter by a cockroach extermination plan and client preparation consultation. Your investment in treatment preparation and follow-up care is crucial in ensuring that the cockroach extermination is as effective as possible. When you need emergency pest or wildlife removal services or are ready to check pest prevention off of your to-do list, contact Eliminate ‘Em today.
Call (866) 802-7378 for Immediate Cockroach Extermination Service!
