The most common types that invade homes in the local Rock Island area include:
- American cockroaches: The species is among the largest sized that invade homes. They have a reddish-brown appearance with a distinctive “figure-8” marking near their heads.
- Brown-banded cockroaches: The brown-banded cockroach is a small invasive species with a body that rarely exceeds ½ of an inch and appears in shades of tan, brown, or black.
- German cockroaches: As one of the world’s most common pests, German cockroaches measure up to 5/8 of an inch long and have a tan or brown body with a pair of dark stripes on their backs.
- Oriental cockroaches: With a shiny black body that often measures one inch, Oriental cockroaches are primarily drawn to areas of moisture such as near leaky plumbing, sewers, and drains.
What Attracts Cockroaches Indoors?
Cockroaches will maneuver their bodies through small openings to invade properties that offer access to food and water sources. Cockroaches located within cardboard boxes, bags, and luggage are sometimes brought into a home by people. As primarily nocturnal creatures, cockroaches tend to hide out of sight during the day and emerge after dark.
The Potential Dangers That Cockroaches Pose
Cockroaches routinely pass through areas of grime and filth, including trash and sewers, with exposure to parasites. Once they move indoors, cockroaches will contaminate food sources and surfaces and may spread salmonellosis, cholera, typhoid fever, and many other harmful concerns. As infestations expand, the accumulation of their feces and external layers of the skin may begin to cause allergic reactions among those with sensitivities.
Best Practices For Preventing Them
Limiting access to food is among the most critical prevention measures. Always place leftovers in the refrigerator or in durable sealed containers and keep kitchen areas free of dirty dishes and crumbs. Trash receptacles containing scraps of food must have lids that prevent access.
Check windows screens and the seals around doors or windows for any gaps that may allow access. Inspect the exterior area for any cracks or other openings that have developed near the foundation. Fix any leaky pipes or other water sources and use dehumidifiers in crawlspaces and basements to limit moisture.
Properly Responding To Intrusions From Harmful Pests
Too many property owners fail to recognize how cockroach infestations can expand. For example, some individuals will purchase do-it-yourself treatment options such as sprays, baiting stations, sticky traps, and other mass-marketed products that have limited effectiveness. During the daytime, cockroaches will hide below or behind appliances or furniture, within wall voids, or other hard-to-reach areas and continue reproducing exponentially.
As a cockroach infestation worsens, competition for scarce food sources might develop, which increases their activity. The best course of action during these times is to consult with a professional pest controller with the training and tools to combat them. Cockroaches are incredibly elusive and very resilient and are best handled by a seasoned expert.
Local Provider Of Pest Control Solutions In Rock Island
For more than 80 years now, the technicians with Quik-Kill Pest Eliminators have been eradicating ants, bed bugs, termites, rodents, and many other troublesome and potentially dangerous types of invading pests. Our team maintains a firm commitment to safety and strives to deliver the highest-quality customer service in the industry. Contact our office today to schedule an onsite inspection.