German Cockroach Identification & Prevention

What are German cockroaches?

Cockroaches are one of the most common insect types, and German roaches are one of the most common cockroach species to invade homes and businesses. These roaches are light brown to tan and have two horizontal dark stripes behind their heads that help to identify them. German cockroaches have wings but do not fly. They are fast movers and scurry out of sight when disturbed. German roaches are very adaptable and have adapted to living near or with people.

Are German cockroaches dangerous?

German roaches are dangerous and damaging pests. Their excrement stains walls, floors, and clothing. These cockroaches also produce a foul-smelling secretion that affects the flavor of foods and is very unpleasant. On their bodies, they carry disease-producing organisms like bacteria, human pathogens, and viruses. They cause a variety of diseases that affect the gastric system—food poisoning, diarrhea, and dysentery. As the roaches travel throughout your home foraging for food, they contaminate food and surfaces with the diseases they carry on their legs and bodies.

Why do I have a German cockroach problem?

German cockroaches are mainly indoor pests and are often introduced into buildings after hitchhiking their way inside bags, boxes, deliveries, used furniture, electronics, and luggage. In the case of apartments or other multi-unit buildings, cockroaches move between units through walls using pipes and wires as their personal highway system. They can also find their way onto any property that offers easy access to food sources—trash cans, compost bins, and pet food.

Where will I find German cockroaches?

This pest is widely distributed and invades homes, restaurants, apartment buildings, hotels, and other places where food is handled or stored. German cockroaches prefer to live in the damp, dark areas of a structure like basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. They congregate in dark drawers, cabinets under sinks, in closets, behind wall voids, under floors, and behind large appliances. They hide during the day and emerge at night to forage for food.

How do I get rid of German cockroaches?

Acquiring help from a professional pest control expert is the best way to eliminate German roaches and keep them from returning. At Albemarle Termite & Pest Control, our Service Professionals are highly trained and dedicated to providing safe and effective pest control services in Elizabeth City that are affordable. We are a local, family-owned pest control company whose number one priority is putting our customers first and exceeding expectations. For home or business owners looking to eliminate pests from their property once and for all, call Albemarle Termite & Pest Control today!

How can I prevent German cockroaches?

Pests are not just a nuisance; they pose potential health threats and are capable of damaging property. Avoid problems with German roaches with the help of the following prevention tips.

• Keep roaches from finding their way into your home by sealing any gaps or cracks in the foundation and exterior walls.
• Replace white outdoor lightbulbs with yellow or LED lights that are less attractive to cockroaches and other insects.
• Fix leaky pipes and fixtures and use dehumidifiers to get rid of excess moisture.
• Make sure outdoor trash cans and compost bins have locking lids.
• Inside your home, store all food, including pet food, in airtight containers or refrigerator.
• Wash dirty dishes, vacuum, and wipe down counters daily.
• Remove trash from your home daily.
• Eliminate clutter from your home where German cockroaches can hide.

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