Species of Cockroaches
Cockroaches are among the most common insects. Based on fossil evidence, cockroaches are known to have been present on Earth for nearly 350 million years. Their sizes vary considerably; some species are up to several inches long. Some biologists consider insects to be one of the most successful groups of animals ever to inhabit this planet, and cockroaches (often referred to as roaches) are one of the most adaptable and successful insect groups.
They have been able to survive many changing environments over millions of years. There are approximately 3500 species of cockroaches worldwide, with about 70 species found in the United States. Their presence in nearly every part of the world and a wide range of habitats demonstrates that cockroaches are truly an outstanding success story in nature. Pest control has had to evolve along with them, and the pest control techs at Anteater Exterminating always stay up to date on the latest methods.
Many of the same outstanding biological characteristics that make roaches so successful can also make them some of the most difficult and common pests. Cockroaches, especially German cockroaches, are some of the most commonly encountered household insect pests in much of the United States, and many other areas worldwide. Fortunately, effective control technology and pest management understanding are now available to allow consistently high levels of cockroach infestation control for most species and in most situations. Cockroach pest control service is one of our specialties at Anteater Exterminating, so give us a call if you need roach exterminators in Phoenix AZ.
Types of Cockroaches in Phoenix AZ
Only a few of the cockroach species found in the United States routinely enter and infest our dwellings. The most common types of cockroach infestations are the German cockroach, American cockroach, oriental cockroach, brown-banded cockroach, smoky brown cockroach, Australian cockroach, brown cockroach, woods cockroach, field cockroach, and Asian cockroach.
Of these common species, the first five probably represent 95% of all cockroach management concerns in and around buildings. In some parts of the country, one species may be more prevalent than another. Certain other species may infest homes or other buildings but will generally be found in a much-localized situation or only under other unusual circumstances. The breeding capabilities of roaches vary greatly depending on the species. Suffice it to say that their reproductive abilities are substantial. Left untreated, one roach can lead to a full roach infestation in a few months. Luckily, pest control service from Anteater exterminating can eliminate roaches and make sure they don’t come back.
What Attracts Cockroaches?
Cockroach damage and health implications
The presence of cockroaches is often detected by their damage or by the fecal matter they deposit, called frass. These clues can aid in diagnosing a cockroach problem. Cockroaches may eat such things as glue or paste (especially from animal-based materials), starch, certain colors of dyes, and any food products that humans eat. As a result, items such as stamps, envelopes, bindings of older books, draperies, occasionally wallpaper, food preparation areas, food storage areas, and open food items may show signs of feeding. The size of the mandible marks and the apparent degree of vigor with which the insects have fed can be indications of the type of cockroach that did the damage. The size and shape of fecal droppings are also clues to the cockroach species involved. A skilled pest control company can analyze the signs they leave behind and make a pest control plan to control them most effectively.
The most important aspect of cockroach damage is a result of their habit of feeding and harboring in damp and unsanitary places, such as sewers, garbage disposals, areas of kitchens, areas of bathrooms, and storage areas indoors. Filth and germs from these sources are spread by the cockroaches onto food supplies, food preparations, surfaces, dishes, utensils, and other surfaces. Cockroaches contaminate far more food than they eat. Diseases transmitted as a result of these habits include various forms of food poisoning or gastroenteritis.
These same habits, along with the smell imparted by any significant level of cockroach infestation, are why people are so disgusted and repelled by the mere presence of cockroaches. For many people, personal disgust and the social stigma attached to cockroaches result in a complete lack of tolerance for any cockroaches in their homes or elsewhere. This is where cockroach pest control services in Phoenix come in handy.
Are Cockroaches dangerous?
Cockroaches are a source of health-threatening allergic reactions and can even trigger life-threatening asthma attacks in sensitive individuals. However, studies have found that some people have a less severe attitude about cockroaches, such that low levels of cockroach presence and an occasional sighting may be acceptable. These attitudes, or tolerances, about cockroach presence, may be acceptable indoors, while some low or moderate levels may be acceptable in the landscape. In either case, carefully considered and executed pest control service from a specialized pest control company will be necessary.
Cockroaches produce an odorous secretion from various points in their bodies, and these secretions can affect the flavor of foods. When the cockroach population is high, these secretions may result in a characteristic odor in the general region of the infestations. Disease-producing organisms, such as bacteria, have been found on cockroach bodies. Although severe digestive diseases have been transmitted experimentally, different forms of gastroenteritis appear to be the principal disease transmitted by cockroaches.
These include food poisoning, nausea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, dysentery, and other illnesses. The organisms causing this disease are carried on the legs and bodies of cockroaches forage. Cockroaches also carry a wide variety of protozoa and other microorganisms inside their bodies, some of which may occasionally be involved in the spread of disease to humans. Cockroach excrement and cast skins also contain several allergens to which many people exhibit allergic responses, such as skin rashes, watery eyes, and sneezing. It’s easy to see how pest control can benefit people with allergies or other sensitive health needs.
For some very allergic people, and particularly for those who have a chronic lung disease such as asthma, allergic attacks to cockroach allergens can be very serious and even life-threatening. All forms of contact with cockroaches should be kept to a minimum. For the most part, however, cockroaches usually are not associated with severe illnesses or disease outbreaks, though they are nearly universally detested. Pest control service can help you get rid of your roach problem once and for all.
How Pest Control Services Get Rid Of Roaches in Phoenix AZ
To control the German cockroach, Anteater Exterminating, Inc. utilizes different gel baits. The bait is injected in small pinhead size placements into the cracks and crevices that the German roach uses for harborage. The secret to effective German cockroach control is bait placement. The Anteater Exterminating, Inc. certified pest control service technician has been highly trained and knows just where to place the bait strategically near the roaches’ food sources.
The German roaches consume the bait and then die. The babies hatch from the eggs, consume the bait, and die. The circle of life is broken, and the infestation is exterminated. Follow-up pest control services are needed to replenish all bait that is consumed. With periodic cockroach pest control service, the team at Anteater Exterminating will ensure the infestation does not reoccur.
Sewer roaches can come from the outside or from the sewer system that is connected to your home. Outside, the placement of granule bait is the most effective solution. The bait must tolerate high temperatures and moisture. If the bait is placed correctly, the roaches will find it, eat it, and die. If the roaches are coming from the sewer system, then you may need to have the city treat the public lines.
Anteater Exterminating: Your Source for Cockroach Control Near Me
The lines that connect your home to the public system can be treated by blowing dust down the vent pipes and through cleanouts that are preset on your property. Anteater Exterminating, Inc. can identify the treatment needs specific to your property and take action to eliminate the sewer roach infestation. Our pest control treatment plans include periodic follow-up treatments that will prevent future infestations and keep your home or business roach-free. If you’re in or around Phoenix AZ and you need a hand with pest control, give us a call and experience the peace of mind that comes with having a qualified roach exterminator on your side.
1. Identify and Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home thoroughly to identify where cockroaches are entering. Seal cracks, crevices, and gaps around doors, windows, and pipes to prevent their entry.
2. Remove Food and Water Sources: Cockroaches are attracted to food and water. Keep your kitchen and other areas clean:
-Clean up food crumbs and spills promptly.
-Store food in airtight containers.
-Fix leaky faucets and pipes to eliminate water sources.
3. Use Cockroach Baits and Traps: Place cockroach baits and traps in strategic locations where cockroaches are likely to hide or travel, such as along baseboards and in cabinets.
4. Apply Insecticides: Use insecticides labeled for cockroach control in areas where cockroaches are active. Follow all safety instructions and consider using professional pest control services for effective treatment.
5. Regular Maintenance: Keep up with cleaning and maintenance routines to prevent future infestations. Regularly inspect and monitor for any signs of cockroaches returning.
By combining these methods and ensuring thoroughness, you can significantly reduce and potentially eliminate cockroach infestations in your home.
1. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): This approach combines various strategies such as sanitation, exclusion, and chemical treatments in a targeted manner.
2. Sanitation: Keep your home clean and free of food debris. Regularly clean kitchen surfaces, floors, and sinks to remove potential food sources for cockroaches.
3. Exclusion: Seal off entry points and eliminate hiding places. Cockroaches prefer dark, moist areas, so reduce clutter and fix leaks to make your home less hospitable.
4. Baits and Traps: Use cockroach baits and traps strategically. Baits attract cockroaches and can eliminate entire colonies, while traps can help monitor and reduce cockroach populations.
5. Insecticides: Consider using insecticides approved for cockroach control in areas where they are active. Follow safety guidelines and consider professional help for severe infestations.
Combining these methods ensures a comprehensive approach to controlling cockroaches and preventing their return.
Allergens: Cockroach droppings, saliva, and decomposing bodies can trigger allergies and asthma attacks, especially in children and sensitive individuals.
Disease Transmission: Cockroaches can spread bacteria and pathogens through contact with food and surfaces, potentially causing illnesses like salmonellosis and gastroenteritis.
Living in a house with a cockroach infestation can compromise indoor air quality and increase the risk of allergic reactions and respiratory issues, particularly if there are dead roaches or roach dust circulating through vents.
