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German Cockroaches

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Identification

Size: German cockroaches are relatively small, typically measuring between 1/2 inch and 5/8 inch in length.
Color: They are light brown in color and have two dark, parallel lines running the length of their backs.
Description: Adult German cockroaches have fully developed wings, but they do not fly. They are commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms, as they are attracted to warm, humid environments. German cockroaches can be distinguished from other cockroach species by their smaller size and the characteristic dark lines on their backs.

German cockroaches are highly adaptable and can survive in a wide range of environments. They are commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms, as they are attracted to warm, humid environments with access to food and water. They are also capable of reproducing quickly and producing large populations, which makes them difficult to control if they become established in a home or building.

German cockroaches are primarily nocturnal, active at night and hiding during the day. They are known to be very fast and agile and can easily hide in small spaces, such as cracks and crevices. German cockroaches are also known to be able to climb smooth surfaces and can often be found near ceilings and on walls. They are scavengers and will eat almost anything, including food scraps, toothpaste, soap, and even book bindings.

German cockroaches can spread germs and bacteria and trigger allergies and asthma symptoms. They can also cause damage to buildings and personal belongings, such as gnawing on books, paper and other materials. Their droppings and shed skins can also trigger allergic reactions in some people.

German cockroaches can be identified by their small size and characteristic physical features. Some key identifying characteristics of German cockroaches include:

  • Markings: German cockroaches have two dark, parallel lines running the length of their backs.
  • Shape: German cockroaches have an oval-shaped body with a flat, broad head and long, slender antennae.
  • Wings: Adult German cockroaches have fully developed wings, but they do not fly.
  • Habitat: German cockroaches are commonly found in warm, humid environments, such as kitchens and bathrooms, and are attracted to sources of food and water.

 

Another way to identify German cockroaches is by their droppings; they are small, dark, and resemble pepper or coffee grounds. They also can leave egg cases (ootheca). Each one of them can contain up to 50 eggs.

Some signs that you may have a German cockroach infestation include:

  • Sightings of small, light brown cockroaches, typically around 1/2 inch to 5/8 inch in length, with two dark, parallel lines running down their backs.
  • Cockroach droppings, which resemble pepper or coffee grounds, found in areas where the cockroaches are active.
  • Egg cases (ootheca), which are small, dark and about the size of a bean, found in or near infested areas.
  • A musty or oily odor in the area where the cockroaches are present.
  • Damage to books, wallpaper, or other items that the cockroaches may be eating or gnawing on.
  • Live or dead cockroaches in or around your home or business.
  • Seeing cockroaches during the day, since they are nocturnal, it’s possible you have a big infestation and they are running out of resources.

 

If you suspect you have an infestation of German cockroaches, it is best to contact a professional pest control company for assistance. They can confirm the presence of the cockroaches and develop a plan to eliminate the infestation effectively.

There are steps that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of a german cockroach infestation:

  • Keep your home or business clean and well-maintained. German cockroaches are attracted to warm, humid environments with access to food and water. Regularly cleaning and vacuuming your home or business can help to reduce the chances of an infestation.
  • Store food properly. Keep food in airtight containers and make sure to clean up any spills or crumbs right away. Make sure to also keep your kitchen and dining areas clean.
  • Fix leaks. German cockroaches are attracted to sources of water, so fixing any leaks in your home or business is important in preventing an infestation.
  • Seal cracks and crevices. German cockroaches can hide in small spaces, so sealing any cracks and crevices in your home or business can help to prevent an infestation.
  • Eliminate harborages. Keep clutter to a minimum and eliminate areas where cockroaches can hide, such as stacks of cardboard boxes.
  • Use bait stations. Place bait stations in areas where cockroaches are known to travel, such as in the kitchen, bathroom, and near appliances.
  • Use professional pest control services. A pest control professional can help you identify and eliminate the sources of food, water and shelter that attract cockroaches, as well as use appropriate pesticides and baits to control the population.

 

It’s important to keep in mind that German cockroaches can be brought into a building by people, so it is important to be aware of the potential sources of infestation and to take steps to prevent cockroaches from being brought into your home or business.

 

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est. 1900

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BIRCH FUMIGATORS

est. 1900

  • Certified Pest Control Professionals
  • Locally Owned & Operated in Alberta
  • Pest Prevention & Extermination
  • Environmentally Friendly Options
  • Subscription Based Services Available
Call: 780-482-5544

Don't Let Bugs Get the Best of You