There are thousands of types of roaches in the world—how do you tell them apart? The cockroach control experts at SafeSpray have put together a guide for the different types of roaches, with a larger focus on the German Cockroach as it’s the most common type of roach in Alabama.
What Does a German Cockroach Look Like?
You can identify a German cockroach by its flat, oval body that ranges from 1/2-inch to 5/8-inch long, as well as a pair of antennae. German cockroaches are light brown, have two dark stripes down its thorax, and have six legs.
Where do German Cockroaches Hide?
The German cockroach is one of the most common roaches found in apartment houses, restaurants, and hotels. They are nocturnal and do not like the light, so you may see them scurrying away if you turn a lamp or flashlight on them.
How do German Cockroaches Get in my Home or Business?
German cockroaches (eggs included) are “brought in,” usually on human belongings, such as luggage, boxes, or packages. All it takes is bringing in one egg capsule, and six months later, you have an infestation. Considered the “indoor cockroach,” German cockroaches tend to go inside during cooler months.
What Are Signs of a German Cockroach Infestation?
Since German cockroaches are nocturnal, it can be hard to see them in your home during the day. Some tell-tale signs of a roach problem are:
- A musty odor.
- Small, black spots (feces) in cabinets, on walls, and near door frames and baseboards.
- Eggshells in cabinets, usually in the basement or under sinks.
- Molted skin.
How to Prevent a German Cockroach Infestation?
The key to preventing German cockroaches—or any roach problem—is sanitation. Here are a few guidelines to prevent a German cockroach infestation:
- Caulk all penetrations through ground-level walls.
- Remove rotting leaves from window wells and gutters.
- Stop water leaks, screen equipment overflow drains, and take overflow water away from buildings; keep drain traps full or capped.
- Store firewood as far away from the house as you can. If you can lift it off the ground, it will help eliminate harborage areas.
- Discard old boxes and piles of papers where roaches can hide.
- Ventilate moist spaces.
- Move garbage cans out of moist areas; remove indoor trash or keep them emptied.
- Keep trash dumpsters and bins clean; use a tight-fitting lid on your trash can.
- Make sure food is not left in sink strainers and frequently run the garbage disposal.
- Keep dishes clean with no residue of food remaining.
- All kitchen appliances (microwaves, toasters, ovens, refrigerators, and stoves) should be maintained in a clean condition so that it is food free and grease-free.
- All pet food needs to be picked up.
- No food left out.
- Sweeping or vacuuming of any food particles or crumbs.
- Clean any crumbs or food particles in your kitchen cabinets.
How to Get Rid of German Cockroaches
If the roach prevention tips did not help, the safest way to get rid of German cockroaches is by hiring a professional for cockroach control. A cockroach exterminator will be able to identify where their nests are and eliminate them from your home without harming your loved ones with harmful pesticides. If located in or around Auburn, Opelika, or Madison, call SafeSpray today at 334-319-9688 to schedule your cockroach control service! Typically, we will target our treatment measures for cockroaches on the exterior and at potential entry points.
What About the American Cockroach?
The American cockroach is also a common type of roach in Alabama, but they’re more commonly found outside. American cockroaches are oval, reddish-brown, and identifiable by a yellow figure 8 pattern on its head. American cockroaches are much bigger than German cockroaches, ranging from 1 1/4-inches long to 2 1/8 inches. Our cockroach control experts at SafeSpray will also treat for these types of roaches as well.
