Cockroach Identification & Prevention

Do you know there are several types of cockroaches in Orange County, CA that could be infesting your home or business? 

Common types of cockroaches are:

• American cockroaches

• Brown-banded cockroaches

• German cockroaches

• Oriental cockroaches

• Smokybrown cockroaches

• Wood roaches

Cockroaches are oval-shaped, nocturnal insects that quickly scurry out of sight when disturbed. Those species that live outside and away from people are helpful in the environment, working to help break down decaying matter, but those that have adapted to living near people are unwelcome pests that spread deadly bacteria and diseases.

Cockroaches are more than a nuisance; they are dangerous and destructive. Having cockroaches in your home for even one day is one day too many! These scavengers live and travel through less than sanitary conditions like garbage dumps, trash cans, sewers, drains, carrion, and excrement. As they move around, they pick up bacteria, human pathogens, and parasites on their bodies and legs that contaminate food and surfaces inside our homes and businesses.

Cockroaches are known for spreading bacteria like salmonella, which causes fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. Also, many people are allergic to their shed skin and feces, which trigger asthma attacks; this is particularly true in young children. 

These destructive pests also damage things like upholstered furniture, bedding, rugs, clothing, and curtains by staining them with excrement or chewing on them.

Cockroaches can find their way onto any property that offers them food. Like us, cockroaches are omnivores, and unfortunately, this means the proteins, carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables found in our kitchens, pantries, trash cans, and gardens can sustain them. 

Trash, compost, pet food, and outdoor eating areas often draw cockroaches to a property. Once living near your structure, it is only a matter of time before they find their way inside, searching for more food and a damp, warm place to call home. 

Cockroaches also get into our homes by hitchhiking. People unintentionally bring these insects indoors inside boxes, packages, plants, firewood, or used furniture or appliances. Sometimes, cockroaches even find their way inside on the bottom of shoes.

Different types of cockroaches prefer different environments. Some, like the American cockroach and wood roach, prefer to live outside; others, like the German cockroach, prefer to live inside our structures. 

Outside, cockroaches live in flower beds, behind tree bark, under woodpiles, under mulch, around trash cans, and near sewers. Inside, they choose the areas of a home or business that are close to food sources and have higher humidity levels. Some of their favorite hideouts are secluded areas in kitchens, basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces. 

Unlike most cockroaches with high moisture needs, brown-banded cockroaches prefer dry, hot places, like the upper parts of cabinets and attic spaces.

If you ever discover that cockroaches have found their way into your Orange County, CA home, get rid of them with a professional's help. DIY cockroach control solutions can be dangerous if not used properly. DIY pest control also doesn't address the root of the cockroach infestation, allowing them to return quickly. 

With over 250 years of combined leadership experience, The PEST Group is the best choice to rid your Orange County, California, home or business of cockroaches. We are dedicated to our customers and providing safe and effective cockroach control solutions.

If you are looking for experienced, dedicated professionals to eliminate cockroaches from your property, contact The PEST Group and request your free inspection today!

In addition to our effective home pest control and commercial pest control services, use the following tips to prevent cockroach infestations:

• Make sure outdoor trash cans and compost bins have tight lids.

• Store all food in airtight containers or the refrigerator.

• Seal up any entry points leading into your home.

• Immediately clean up spills and crumbs.

• Wash dishes and remove trash from your home daily.

• Store trash containers away from the outside walls of your home.

Since most cockroaches are attracted to places with high humidity levels, reducing excess moisture in and around your home is essential. Keep basements and crawl spaces dry using dehumidifiers and ensuring they are adequately ventilated. It is also important to quickly repair leaky air conditioners, pipes, and fixtures. For local cockroach control near you, reach out to The PEST Group today.