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What are cockroaches?

Cockroaches are common urban pests, but also live in rural and suburban areas. These scavengers can find their way into any home or business. Cockroaches have a flattened, oval-shaped body, and six spine-covered legs. Their long antennae are usually the same length or longer than their bodies. Most are black, brown, or reddish-brown, and many species have identifying marks on their heads and bodies. Whether they have wings or not depends on the species. In most cases, even those with wings choose not to fly.

Are cockroaches dangerous?

Cockroaches are dangerous to people and connected to many health problems. Some of the many reasons why cockroaches should never live in any home or business include:

  • The triggering of asthma and allergies
  • The spreading of bacteria that cause stomach illnesses
  • The contamination of food and surfaces with human pathogens and viruses
  • They carry on their bodies and legs the eggs of parasitic pests

Common Types of Cockroaches in San Diego County

German Cockroaches

About the same size as brown-banded roaches, the German cockroaches have two brown stripes running the length of their wings. Because they love fermented foods, they are regularly found in unsanitary kitchen or bathroom conditions.

American Cockroaches

Usually, between 1- to 1½-inches long with reddish-brown wings, American cockroaches like to fly outside. They are scavengers with a special taste for warm damp places, water, and alcoholic beverages. They like to eat decaying organic matter.

Oriental Cockroaches

Dark brown and about one-inch long, oriental cockroaches seek out warm damp areas indoors. They flourish in basements and storage areas where they can stay close to the ground. They eat decaying organic matter and prefer starches.

Why do I have a cockroach problem?

Cockroaches are opportunistic pests and often live outside in areas that are close to homes and businesses, usually attracted by exterior lights. As cockroaches move about foraging for food, they often find their way indoors through drains, vents, or openings in exterior walls and foundations. These insects also regularly hitchhike their way into structures inside used appliances or furniture, deliveries, or potted plants.

y enter in through cracks in the foundation or wooden structures (deck posts, wooden shingles, porch steps) that are making direct contact with the soil. Once inside, they move behind walls. If they find water-damaged wood, insulation, or other cellulose-based materials, the termites will start attacking and feeding their colony with it.

Where will I find cockroaches?

Most species of cockroaches prefer to live in damp locations, though there are a few species that prefer hot, dry areas. Outside, they seek shelter in a variety of places such as wooded areas, behind tree bark, under mulch, in gardens, around dumpsters or trash cans, in compost piles, and sewers. Inside they nest behind appliances, in drawers, under cabinets, and around pipes and drains. Cockroaches that prefer dark, hot, dry locations will nest in attics or the upper parts of cabinets.

How do I get rid of cockroaches?

There are many species of cockroaches living throughout San Diego County. Proper identification is key when it comes to eliminating cockroaches. The best way to get rid of those that have found their way into your yard or home and prevent them from returning is to partner with Triton Termite & Pest Control. Our experienced professionals and modern services provide home and business owners with peace of mind knowing that their pest problems will be solved once and for all. If you are looking to get rid of dangerous cockroaches from your property with the help of dedicated, local professionals, reach out to Triton Termite & Pest Control today!

How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?

For homeowners looking to protect their homes from cockroaches, partner with Triton Termite & Pest Control and use the following prevention tips:

  • Place a stone or crushed rock barrier between any mulch or soil and your home’s foundation.
  • Keep cockroaches out by using a caulking gun to repair cracks in the foundation and exterior walls. Install door sweeps, fix loose screens, and place weatherstripping around windows and doors.
  • Reduce moisture levels inside your home by using dehumidifiers and air conditioners. Also, repair leaky pipes and fixtures.
  • Eliminate food sources by keeping tight-fitting or locking lids on outdoor trash cans and compost bins. Place gardens as far away from the outside of your home as possible. Pick up uneaten pet food each evening. Never leave food out in the open on counters or tables. Wash dirty dishes daily.

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