Over millions of years, cockroaches have evolved into some of the most adaptable pests on the planet. There are approximately 4,000 living species of cockroaches in the world.
Cockroaches are common in buildings and households because they seek warm places near food and water. Unfortunately, cockroaches can cause allergies and trigger asthma attacks, especially in children. They can also spread nearly 33 different kinds of bacteria.
Before we get into everything you need to know about German cockroaches, let’s go over some common cockroach characteristics.
Common Traits of Cockroaches
Though each species of cockroach has unique markers, there are some commonalities from type to type. Cockroaches are usually a shade of brown, ranging from light tan to dark brown (nearly black). Across the board, roaches always have long antennae. Their bodies are also fairly distinct—they are oblong and relatively flat. And like other insects, cockroaches all have six legs.
If you’ve ever seen a cockroach in your home, a restaurant, or a public restroom, it may have been an American cockroach, a brown-banded cockroach, or an oriental cockroach, but it was most likely a German cockroach—the most common type of cockroach found worldwide.
What does a German cockroach look like?
Cockroaches, in general, are flat and oval in shape with six legs and a pair of antennae. German cockroaches range in length from 12 to 5/8 of an inch. They are light brown to tan in color and often distinguished by two dark stripes down their backs.
Where do German cockroaches live?
German cockroaches prefer warm and humid environments, close to food and water sources. They frequently invade residential properties by hitchhiking in grocery bags, cardboard boxes, and secondhand appliances. Homeowners are most likely to find a German cockroach crawling around the bathroom or kitchen.
What do German cockroaches eat?
German cockroaches will feed on almost anything, including soap, glue, and toothpaste!
Are German cockroaches dangerous?
German cockroaches are more than just nuisance pests—they have been linked to disease transmission by picking up germs on the spines of their legs as they crawl through decaying matter. These bacteria are then transferred to food and other surfaces that humans frequently touch. In fact, cockroaches are known to spread at least 33 different types of bacteria, six kinds of parasitic worms, and at least seven other human pathogens. Furthermore, cockroach saliva, droppings, and rotting bodies contain proteins that cause allergies and worsen asthma symptoms, particularly in children. To learn more about hidden allergy triggers in your home, read this article by Dr. Jorge Parada, medical advisor for the National Pest Management Association.
How do I get rid of cockroaches?
Since cockroaches spend the majority of their time near food sources, maintaining proper hygiene is essential to preventing an infestation. Homeowners should make a concerted effort to keep kitchen counters and floors clean and free of crumbs. It’s also important to vacuum frequently and dispose of garbage on a regular basis.
If you find one cockroach in your home, it’s likely there are many more hiding in cracks and crevices. German cockroaches can breed at a rate of up to six generations per year. If you suspect you have a cockroach infestation, contact Green Safety Limited. Our fumigation experts will correctly identify the species and offer an appropriate treatment plan.
For bookings and inquiries, contact us at Greensafety@ymail.com or call us at +234 701 218 8424.