Among the most common of insects found on Earth, the cockroach has been around for over 300 million years. But being common does not make you liked, and indeed the cockroach is probably one of the most hated of all insect species. The German cockroach in particular is a big nuisance pest for many homes around the country, including Arkansas.
What are German Cockroaches?
The German Cockroach (Blatella germanica) is a widespread urban pest that can be found in almost any building – from your home or apartment to hotels and restaurants. The German Cockroach is originally from Africa and as such does not tolerate colder temperates very easily; in places of frequent cold weather, these roaches are typically only found near human dwellings. The usually mild winters, warm summers and vast natural and urban landscapes of Arkansas make this state a perfect home for German Cockroaches.
German Cockroaches are tan or brown in color and are usually about 1.2 to 5/8 of an inch long. They prefer moist environments and are common not only in kitchens but also in bathrooms (nothing worse than a roach running around the toilet seat!). Like most other cockroach species, the German Cockroach is an omnivore and scavenger, preferring starch, sugar, meat and grease. During food shortages they may also turn cannibalistic, eating the legs and wings off other cockroaches.
German cockroaches are notoriously hard to get rid of once an infestation has started. The female produces are very large number of offspring in each egg case, with juveniles reaching sexual maturity quickly.
Why do I have them?
Contrary to popular belief, it is not just “dirty” people who have cockroaches – any home, office or other building can be a perfectly comfortable home for this pest. Think about it – you provide them with a nice, warm environment with plenty of places to hide, a freshly stocked pantry to feed on and fresh water from leaky faucets or pipes.
Are these pests dangerous?
Roaches that frequent human environments tend to carry a variety of diseases and parasites. Carried on the legs and bodies, different forms of gastroenteritis (food poisoning, diarrhea, etc.) may end up on food or kitchen utensils. Fecal matter and cast skins are also known to cause a number of reactions such as watery eyes, congestion and asthma. You certainly don’t want these pests around you or your family!
How do I know if I have them?
Cockroaches in general are known to be quite fast. Most species are also nocturnal and you won’t even see a one until you turn on a light and see them scurry away! If you have a heavy infestation, you may well see German Cockroaches out and about during the daytime. Stress (such as lack of food) can also cause them to come out. A trained pest professional can also be contacted to search for roaches and may also leave out traps.
How do I prevent German Cockroaches?
As mentioned before, it isn’t just “dirty” people who have cockroaches, but maintaining a clean home environment (especially around the kitchen area) is essential to deterring cockroaches. Baits put in cracks or in baseboards are usually an effective method to control German Cockroaches, although usually about 95% of the roaches must be killed to control the infestation.