Did you know that there are about 4,500 different species of cockroaches found throughout the world? This is a pretty terrifying number, luckily, there are only a handful of species commonly found in Rock Island, Illinois. The most prevalent species that commonly invade area properties are American cockroaches, German cockroaches, Oriental cockroaches, brown-banded cockroaches, and the Pennsylvania wood cockroach.
Each of these species has varying coloration, sizes, and markings, but they can all be identified by their long, oval-shaped bodies, six legs, and wings that lie flat on their backs. They range in size from about half an inch long to up to three inches depending on the species.
While you’re only ever likely to find one of a few species in your home, this doesn't mean that cockroaches in the area aren’t a real concern. For one thing, cockroaches are quite invasive and difficult to get rid of. But, the even more concerning problem is that they are unsanitary pests that are often covered in germs. Cockroaches carry some serious pathogens that lead to illness in humans.
Because of the risks of cockroaches, it’s important to know how to identify cockroaches and their infestations as quickly as possible in order to limit your exposure.
Signs Of A Cockroach Infestation
Cockroaches are attracted to humid areas that give them access to food sources, and they will eat almost anything including pet food. Because of this, they are often found in kitchen areas and bathrooms. Of course, the most obvious sign of an infestation is seeing a cockroach, but this is unlikely to happen until an infestation is quite advanced. There are other signs you’re likely to pick up on first if you know what to look for, including:
A strange, musty odor that wasn’t there before
Finding shed skins near baseboards or next to appliances
Discovering egg casings that range in color from white to dark brown
The appearance of irregular, brown smear marks on walls and baseboards
Seeing cockroach droppings. These look similar to pepper or coffee grounds.
How Much Of An Issue Are Cockroaches?
Most people realize that cockroaches are disgusting pests, and no one wants to have them around. However, while not all infections will lead to illness, cockroaches can carry and spread many diseases including salmonellosis, typhoid fever, E. coli, and gastroenteritis. Any food they come into contact with will need to be thrown away, and any surfaces they touch are also considered contaminated.
The other big concern is that it’s really difficult to eliminate a cockroach infestation once it begins, and the longer the infestation is allowed to grow the harder it is to control. Cockroaches can reproduce quickly, and hide in many hard-to-see places such as inside walls or under appliances. Once cockroaches get inside, DIY control methods are unlikely to remove them all.
What To Do If You Notice Signs Of Cockroaches
While it’s ineffective to try to remove cockroaches on your own, the professionals at Quik-Kill Pest Eliminators have nearly one hundred years of resources and skills behind our name.
We can provide reliable, affordable residential pest control plans that will keep cockroaches out and also remove any current infestations.
Discover more by giving us a call today or by sending us a message online.