Feb 20, 2013 | Uncategorized
Also known as Palmetto Bugs or Waterbugs, American Cockroaches are the largest cockroach in the U.S. American Cockroaches are considered one of the fastest running insects; they often dart out of sight when someone enters a room, and can fit into small spaces despite their large size. They have been known to fly, but it’s rare.
Identification
- Reddish brown in color and have a yellowish pattern on the back of their head
- 1.5 to 2 inches in length
- Oval
Environment
- Usually lives in dark, damp areas such as sewers, storm drains, steam tunnels, and outdoors in landscaping and tree holes
- Prefer warm, dark, humid environments in homes such as wall voids, crawl spaces, basements, utility rooms, or attics
- Typically feed on decaying organic matter and a variety of other foods
- Also commonly found in larger commercial buildings such as restaurants, grocery stores, food processing plants, and hospitals
- Infest food storage and food preparation areas
Threats
- Have been known to spread up to 33 kinds of bacteria, 6 kinds of parasitic worms, and at least 7 other kinds of human pathogens
- Carry germs from decaying matter or sewage onto food or food surfaces
- Not common in homes
- May move indoors during colder months seeking warmer temperatures and food through openings in the foundation
Treatment
- Vacuum often
- Keep food in tightly sealed containers
- Take out garbage often. Dispose of garbage in tightly sealed bags in a tightly secured container outside of the home
- Seal off cracks and crevices that can be used as entrances into your home
- Granular bait formulations in attics and crawl spaces
- Dust in attic and crawl spaces
- Perimeter spray treatments
- Perimeter granular bait treatments
If you spot evidence of cockroaches call a licensed pest professional like Northwest Exterminating as soon as possible. American cockroaches can lay 10 or more egg cases, each containing 14-16 eggs. You don’t want this infestation to get out of hand.
Feb 6, 2013 | Uncategorized
Roaches are often referred to as w
aterbugs. These bugs enter homes and commercial kitchens in search of food, water, and shelter.
Habits
- Enter through cracks and crevices
- Enter by way of boxes, containers, etc.
- Commonly found in areas with water such as kitchens and bathrooms
Different Species
Threats
- Cockroaches have been reported to spread at least 33 kinds of bacteria, six kinds of parasitic worms, and at least seven other kinds of human pathogens
- Cockroach allergens trigger allergic reactions
- Have shown to cause asthma in children
- Pick up germs while crawling though decaying matter or sewage and carry those germs onto foods or other surfaces
Prevention
- Reduce moisture by fixing leaky drains and pipes, properly ventilate basements and crawlspaces
- Brush all firewood before bringing it into your home – many insects lay eggs on firewood
- Clean kitchen counters regularly of spills and crumbs
- Clean dishes immediately after use
- Vacuum often
- Keep garbage in sealed containers and dispose often
- Keep food seals and stored properly
- Seal cracks and crevices that roaches could use as entry points into a structure
Other Pests to Look Out for