A goliath in the cockroach space, the American Cockroach is what most people imagine when conjuring up a fearful image of a cockroach in their mind... but are they as bad their German counterparts?
The American cockroach is a large insect, with adults ranging anywhere from 1.5” to 2” (or more) in length. Recognized by its brown color, flattened body, and elongated antennae, the American cockroach is distinctive due to two unique features: its capability to fly (though they’re more gliders than anything) and its potent, musty odor.
Like many other cockroach species, the American cockroach is nocturnal and thrives in warm and humid environments. From residential homes to restaurants and other commercial establishments, these cockroaches make their presence known. American cockroaches don’t reproduce as quickly as German cockroaches. Female cockroaches produce roughly 10 egg-cases (known as an ootheca) in a year with each case containing roughly 16 eggs.
American cockroaches are not picky roommates, so long as a place provides warmth, humidity, and readily available food and water - then they’ll gladly move in. They are frequently found in homes, eateries, and commercial premises. Kitchens, bathrooms, and other food or water sources (namely around drains) are their preferred hideouts.
Apart from their unnerving presence, American cockroaches pose a health risk to humans. They can carry and spread bacteria and other pathogens leading to potential diseases. Their ability to contaminate food can cause food poisoning, making cockroach control a necessary measure for maintaining a healthy environment for families and homeowners.
For serious infestations of American cockroaches, it's recommended to call a professional pest control company. But if you're only seeing a few of these critters, you can try to deter them by sealing up any cracks and holes in your home, promptly cleaning food spills, and decluttering your space.
American cockroaches find their way into homes through cracks and gaps in your home's structure, including windows and doors. They're crafty travelers and can also piggyback on your belongings, such as grocery bags, boxes, furniture, and plants.
The American cockroach is a large, brown insect, about 2 inches in length. It has a flattened shape and long antennae. Distinguishing features include their ability to fly (which they don’t use often) and a strong, noticeable odor.
Cockroaches reproduce quickly. After a single mating, a female cockroach can lay around seven broods with up to 50 eggs at a time, and the eggs will hatch in about 2 weeks. The young cockroaches, called nymphs, will mature into adults in about 3 months provided they aren’t immediately eaten by other cockroaches. This means that a small cockroach infestation can quickly grow into a large infestation.
Cockroaches are omnivorous and will eat almost anything. However, they prefer to eat food that is high in carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta, and cereal. They will also eat other foods, such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and even garbage. They will even eat their own fecal matter, brood, and even each other if the population is dwindling.
Signs of a cockroach infestation include seeing cockroaches themselves, their droppings, egg casings that are small oval-shaped capsules found in cracks and crevices, or a distinct odor. This odor is often strong and unpleasant and likened to a sooty or mildew stench. Fun fact, it is often the oriental cockroach that produces the worst smell.
Cockroaches can be dangerous to human health. They can carry bacteria and other pathogens that can cause food poisoning, diarrhea, and other illnesses. Cockroaches can also trigger asthma or allergic reactions in some people.
A few ways you can get rid of cockroaches are by using cockroach traps, spray, boric acid, or hiring a pest control company. Aruza Pest control has a tried and tested checklist that ensures infestation treatment and prevention.
A severe American cockroach problem necessitates the expertise of a professional pest control company. These specialists have the experience and skills required to quickly and effectively resolve your American cockroach issue.
In general though, most cockroach infestations will be the result of German cockroaches as American cockroaches tend to be more of a case-by-case where one happened to wander in.
To keep your home free of American cockroaches, consider the following preventive measures:
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