Cockroaches are insects that are responsible for most of the infestations today. Though they have been around for thousands of years, they have grown populous in recent years because of their ability to adapt to any conditions. They can survive in extreme heat, cold, low moisture, and high humidity, as well as any amount of cleanliness.
Cockroaches have flat, oval-shaped brown or black bodies and an exoskeleton with a segmented body and a head region bearing mouthparts. Their legs have a segmented appearance and are adapted for jumping and running. Depending on the species, they can measure up to three inches in length.
Types Of Cockroaches And Their Behavior
Cockroaches are attracted to dark, warm, and moist areas where they cannot be seen. Some of these areas include the inside wall voids, cracks in cupboards below sinks, behind stoves or refrigerators or receptacles. Cockroaches hide during the day and lay eggs and feed at night.
The four most common cockroaches in Oklahoma City are American cockroaches, German cockroaches, Oriental cockroaches, and brown-banded cockroaches.
Six Signs Of Cockroaches
You are likely to see signs of cockroaches before seeing an actual roach. When they are in your home, you can find them by looking for the following:
- Cockroach droppings are dark gray and resemble tiny grains of rice. They tend to look like dirt in the cracks and crevices around your home.
- You may see smear marks or black and brown spots on walls and floors.
- Finding egg capsules, called ootheca, is another sign of cockroaches. These capsules contain anywhere from 12 to 15 eggs. The young will begin to hatch in around two weeks.
- After eggs hatch, you may see white nymphs crawling around for several weeks before turning into adults.
- Shed skins are another sign. Cockroaches shed their skin continuously. The process of shedding begins when the hard outer layer of their exoskeletons is dissolved by fluid secreted from the cockroach’s saliva.
- You may notice a musty odor coming from the location of an infestation growing stronger over time.
If you notice these or other signs of cockroaches in your Oklahoma City home, there is no time to waste. The sooner you address an infestation the better the outcome is likely to be.
The Dangers Of Cockroaches In Your Oklahoma City Home
Cockroaches do not bite and therefore pose no direct threat to humans but they do pose a danger to your health and your property.
Cockroaches are scavengers and will actively search for food. Pretty much anything will do, from our food to pet food they aren't picky about what they eat. Cockroaches can even live on glue and other non-food items.
In their search for sustenance, cockroaches will contaminate food and surfaces with their feces. Their feces can spread bacteria, such as E.coli and salmonella, and cause allergic and asthma reactions in some people.
Cockroaches are unusually good at hiding and widely considered the most durable pest species around. The best thing to do when you spot signs of cockroaches. Call the professionals at Guaranteed Pest Service of Oklahoma. We can eliminate any existing population and make sure they don't come back in the future. Reach out today to find out more about our cockroach control options.
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