Viewed by many as some of the worst pests, a cockroach infestation can be detrimental to a home or office space as cockroaches are stubborn and are not easy to eliminate without a professional. Though often believed to only a problem in dirty houses these pests can become an issue in even the cleanest of locations.
The most commonly-encountered cockroaches through the Saint Cloud region are that of the American cockroach, the Australian cockroach, the brown cockroach, the Florida woods roach, the German cockroach and the smoky-brown cockroach.
When a cockroach is first seen, many may attempt to use DIY methods to treat the issue. At-home products, such as traps, bait or magnets are not frequently successful in removing infestations. Using a licensed exterminator is typically the only way to effectively combat a roach infestation.
These pests lay eggs frequently, often creating a large colony quickly. While most cockroaches only live about a year, they can produce hundreds of offspring in that time. Most infestations are larger than what can be seen, as cockroaches can move into wall voids and hidden areas.
WHAT DO COCKROACHES LOOK LIKE?
Cockroaches are large insects, all with oval-shaped bodies, six legs and long antennae. Each cockroach may have different characteristics depending on the specific species. One of the largest species is the American cockroach. These pests can grow up to three inches in length. Typically, they are a red or brown color with a yellow line located behind their heads.
The Australian cockroach is normally just longer than an inch. Their color consists of a brown body with lighter-colored bands around the back of the body. Australian cockroaches resemble a miniature version of the American cockroach. This species has wings and can fly.
Similar in color to the Australian cockroach, brown cockroaches are dark brown. They are easily identified by two light brown bands across their bodies. These cockroaches do not typically exceed half an inch in length. Male brown cockroaches have wings and can fly; however, females have underdeveloped wings and cannot fly.
Native to Florida, the Florida woods cockroach reaches a length of around an inch and a half. These cockroaches are red or brown in color. To most, they do not appear to have wings, however, they have short ones. Unlike many other species, the Florida woods cockroach is very wide, measuring around an inch in width.
German cockroaches are also quite small, normally around half an inch in length. They are normally a light brown color. While they have wings, they cannot fly. This species of cockroach reproduces at a very high rate, making it one of the most stubborn to exterminate.
Much larger than German cockroaches, smoky-brown cockroaches measure approximately an inch and a half in length. Their bodies are normally a dark brown or black color. These cockroaches have long antennae, typically longer than the length of their bodies.
WHERE DO COCKROACHES LIVE?
In general, cockroaches are resilient. They can typically live in any area that has access to a food and water source and reliable shelter. This makes inside areas especially appealing to them. Cockroaches typically live indoors, usually in kitchen cabinets, under refrigerators or near other appliances. However, they can also be found in other indoor spaces, such as bathrooms, in garages near garbage cans or in areas with wood or cardboard. Cockroaches have been known to hitch a ride into homes in cardboard moving boxes, feasting on the adhesive holding the box together.
Unlike other roach species that prefer living indoors, the Florida woods cockroach is most frequently found outside. These insects can only survive in areas with high humidity, making Saint Cloud a favorable area for them. When living outdoors, they are often found in wooded areas with high levels of moisture. Although they do not frequently move inside, they are commonly found around the edges of a home in leaf piles and debris.
WHAT DO COCKROACHES EAT?
Cockroaches are not picky eaters and will eat both plant and animal materials. They often prefer sweet or starchy foods; however, they will eat what is available when their survival is on the line. In kitchens, cockroaches will eat small crumbs of food left out, grease that may not be wiped off the counter or even pet food. When this is not available, however, they will turn to other food sources. This may include books, furniture and clothing.
DAMAGE CAUSED BY COCKROACHES
A small infestation of cockroaches does not typically lead to severe structural damage to a building. Larger infestations, however, can damage some areas of a home over time. If a very large cockroach issue is left untreated, it can cause damage to some home items and structures. Adhesives in building materials, paper and fabrics can all be eaten by cockroaches. Because they like to eat the glue that holds structures together, this could create problems in wall voids or flooring over time. Although structural damage is not common, cockroaches can cause damage to items within a Saint Cloud area property.
ARE COCKROACHES AGGRESSIVE?
These unwanted pests are afraid of humans. In fact, they prefer to come out when the lights are off and humans are out of sight. When cockroaches are approached, they typically flee and seek out safety. For the most part, cockroaches do not bite. However, they can scratch when feeling threatened. Within their own cockroach colonies, some experts have found that the males can be aggressive with one another.
DO COCKROACHES CARRY DISEASE?
Unlike some pests, cockroaches cannot directly carry a disease. However, they can still spread illnesses indirectly. If a surface has been contaminated by cockroaches and then consumed, sickness is likely. These insects leave a trail of urine, feces and saliva as they travel within a home. Sometimes, active bacteria can be left behind, spreading an array of illnesses. Cockroaches can cause E. coli and salmonella poisoning in humans and pets. These are both bacteria that are linked to food poisoning. This sickness causes digestive issues, such as diarrhea, vomiting and stomach cramping.
Aside from food poisoning, cockroaches can cause worsened respiratory symptoms. The allergens from cockroaches have been linked to allergy and asthma symptoms. Some studies have found that exposure to cockroaches over time can lead to the development of asthma for some.
HOW TO DETECT COCKROACHES
These signs may indicate a cockroach control problem:
• Droppings, resembling coffee grounds or black pepper, located near food sources • A strong, musty odor within a property • Small egg capsules, often dark brown or red, found indoors • Chew marks on food packaging in a kitchen or pantry • Spotting a live cockroach inside the home or building, as this often points to a larger infestation
HOW TO PREVENT COCKROACHES
To help prevent termite issues the following steps should be taken:
• Clean up any spills and keep food in airtight containers • Remove pet food and water dishes from accessible areas and feed pets at designated mealtimes • Clear up cluttered areas that may serve as hiding places • Seal holes and cracks to make it difficult for cockroaches to get inside • Contact a licensed pest control company to provide specialized prevention techniques
