There are estimated to be more than 4,000 various species of cockroaches found worldwide. Cockroaches are generally considered social insects that live in groups and belong to the order of Blattodea. They have been in existence throughout recorded history and are extremely durable and resilient creatures that have been known to survive for days without water or food.
The German cockroach (Blattella Germanica) usually has a brown or tan-colored body that ranges from ½ to 5/8 of an inch long and has a pair of dark stripes. Although the adults have wings, they are unlikely to fly and will run instead. In nature, these creatures prefer tropical climates, as they are incapable of surviving very cold temperatures; therefore, they tend to move indoors and are among the most common invaders found in homes or restaurants, hotels, nursing homes, and other institutions where food is regularly prepared or consumed.
Cockroaches are scavengers that willingly forage through garbage, sewage, and other unsanitary conditions. They are known for carrying salmonellosis, cholera, E. coli, and many other harmful conditions that may pose health risks. Fortunately, rarely do German cockroaches bite; however, they are still very capable of contaminating food and surfaces, spreading illness.
Are you a local property owner that has recognized signs of cockroach infestation and is struggling to determine how to get rid of German cockroaches and what repels cockroaches from returning? Contacting a licensed exterminator is strongly encouraged for those who are encountering these pests.
How To Differentiate German Cockroaches From Other Roaches
Although sometimes mistakenly identified as the Asian cockroach, the German cockroach is usually differentiated by its distinctive pair of dark stripes that run horizontally and the fact that it is very unlikely to fly. The species also is a prolific breeder, with females regularly mating and creating egg cases (ootheca) that often contain dozens of eggs. After reaching adulthood, German cockroaches typically have a lifespan of several months.
Do German Roaches In The Bay Area Bite?
Do German cockroaches bite? It is doubtful that a Cockroach would bite a human unless an indoor infestation becomes very large and food sources become very scarce. In history, there are stories of cockroaches that were starving on ocean vessels and began biting sailors during lengthy trips; however, this is a very rare scenario.
How German Cockroaches Get Into Bay Area Homes
Many of the tips regarding what repels cockroaches are simply related to limiting sources of food. Keeping kitchen areas free of food particles is among the most important. Some other best practices include:
- Maintaining tightly-fitting lids on all trash receptacles containing food scraps
- Ensuring that damaged screens are repaired, and exterior vents are properly covered to prevent access
- Installing sweeps on the base of exterior doors and sealing gaps using weatherstripping
- Transferring dried foods in weaker packaging materials into more durable containers before storing them in pantries
What Is The Best Spray To Kill Cockroaches In The Bay Area?
The local home improvement stores sell a variety of do-it-yourself pest control products that are known for using overhyped marketing tactics that exaggerate the efficacy of these options. Also, some of these sprays, traps, and powders may contain strong chemical formulas that could have harmful interactions with cleaning products, and other agents found indoors.
Team Of Licensed Pest Control Operators In The Bay Area
Bay Pest has been assisting home and business owners in this region with pest-related concerns for many years. As a seasoned team of local technicians, we have an understanding of the signs of cockroach infestation and how to get rid of German cockroaches safely and completely. Our experts may deploy up to a three-stage treatment plan to oust these pests.