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Columbia's Complete Guide To American Cockroaches
April 15, 2021
If there’s a pest that makes your stomach churn, it has to be cockroaches. These repulsive bugs thrive in areas of extreme filth like sewers and garbage dumpsters and pick up a host of pathogens and parasites along the way. A small cockroach in your kitchen is bad enough, but the presence of large, imposing American cockroaches can be seriously distressing. Although they share much in common, not all roaches are alike and it’s important to know how to identify the species infesting your property. This is your ultimate guide to American cockroaches in Columbia.
What Are American Cockroaches?
Also known as palmetto bugs, American cockroaches are the largest species of home-invading cockroaches in the U.S. The average American cockroach measures about two inches in length and has a reddish-brown coloration with a figure-eight pattern on its back. But despite the name, American cockroaches aren’t indigenous to the United States. Rather, they are an invasive species originating in Africa.
Like their cousins the German cockroach and the brown-banded cockroach, American cockroaches thrive in human environments. They can easily survive outdoors but will take up residence in homes and businesses if the conditions are right.
Why American Cockroaches Are Bad News
The worst thing about cockroaches is their ability to spread disease. As they feed and congregate in human refuse, they pick up harmful bacteria like E.coli as well as parasites like hookworms. As they explore your property in search of food and water, they can contaminate surfaces and food with these pathogens.
Severe cockroach infestations are even known to cause asthma. Accumulation of saliva and droppings left by cockroaches can irritate the lungs and provoke an asthmatic response in certain people.
And although not a direct threat to your health, American cockroaches are also incredibly stressful to have around. Having cockroaches can make you feel like you’ve failed to provide a safe and clean home or business. The sight of large American cockroaches is revolting and nobody wants them around.
Preventing American Cockroaches
Perhaps the worst thing about American cockroaches is that they are difficult to get rid of. These resilient insects are biologically designed to slip into tight spaces and resist damage from being crushed or stomped. They move quickly to avoid being caught and can reproduce in significant numbers. That’s why the best American cockroach control method is prevention.
Here’s what you can do keep American cockroaches off your property:
- Practice good cleaning habits. Wipe down surfaces after eating and preparing food to eliminate food scraps that attract roaches. Mop and vacuum floors often and don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight.
- Control moisture. Like all animals, cockroaches need water to survive, and excess moisture can attract them to your home. Locate any leaky pipes or faucets and fix them as needed.
- Be mindful of trash. Make sure that your trash is taken out regularly. Use a receptacle with a tight-fitting lid, and if possible, keep garbage bins away from the property.
- Use sturdy storage. American cockroaches will eat just about anything and that includes the snacks in your pantry. Store your pantry items in airtight containers made of sturdy plastic, glass, or metal to keep roaches and other pests out.
- Seal entrances. Evaluate your property for places where roaches can get in, especially around the foundation and pipes. Identify any points of entry and seal with caulk. Replace any faulty weather stripping or door sweeps as well.
If you’ve spotted American cockroaches on your property, contact the professionals at Jury Pest Services right away. With both residential and commercial pest control plans available, our professional team will eliminate your cockroach problem so you can get back to business as usual. Get in touch with us today.