When you imagine cockroaches, you might first think of the American cockroach. This species is reddish-brown and the largest in the country reaching up to three inches in length. However, they aren’t the most common cockroach species. That title goes to the German cockroach. The German cockroach is a tan color, but it can be best identified by the two black parallel stripes that run parallel behind its back. Like all cockroaches, this species has six legs, a pair of antennae, and wings that lie flat on their backs. They have long, oval-shaped bodies, and they are only about half an inch long.
German cockroaches are one of the more troublesome pests in Manteca, California. They prefer to live in dark areas where they can hide out of sight, so they are often found under appliances, inside cupboards, or in holes in the wall. They are also great climbers which allows them to get up onto walls and ceilings.
The Risks Of German Cockroaches
While most people realize that cockroaches are unsanitary pests, not everyone knows just how dangerous they can be. German cockroaches thrive in humid areas with access to food, and they will eat nearly anything. They are often found in areas filled with decay and garbage, and they pick up pathogens on their bodies and the small spines on their legs. Then, they transfer these germs to food and surfaces around your property.
They can spread diseases such as salmonella and E. coli. One specific concern with the German cockroach species is that they are especially invasive. Their smaller size makes it easier for them to hide than some of the bigger varieties, so infestations can happen for months without you realizing it. They are able to reproduce quickly and are also resistant to many pesticides.
What’s The Best Way To Handle A German Cockroach Infestation?
Because German cockroaches are so invasive and so difficult to eradicate, trying to remove them on your own is usually just a waste of time and money. Often DIY methods take care of a handful of visible cockroaches while the real population continues to grow out of sight. You’ll spend a lot of effort working to get rid of them with no success.
Instead of trying to handle these dangerous pests on your own, let the experts at Next Generation Pest Control take it from here. We are locally owned and operated and provide ongoing German cockroach control that you can rely on. Contact us today to request a consultation. We also offer commercial pest solutions for Manteca businesses.
Five Cockroach Prevention Tips
If you’re not currently dealing with a cockroach infestation, there are some steps you can take to prevent them. These measures, along with pest control assistance, are the best way to prevent German cockroaches. These five steps can go a long way and remove the factors that attract cockroaches in the first place:
- Cover all garbage cans with lids and regularly take out the trash.
- Keep kitchens clean which include wiping up food and drink spills right away and sweeping and mopping. Also, keep pet food stored inside and with an airtight lid.
- Deep clean your home with a focus on cleaning the inside of cupboards and pantries and underneath appliances. Also, remove clutter from around your property.
- German cockroaches prefer humidity, so use dehumidifiers and repair leaky plumbing as needed.
- Make it more difficult for cockroaches to come inside by fixing broken screens in doors and windows.
