Cockroaches

Around the world, there are 4,000 cockroach species. Although all of these species are problematic for one reason or another, not all of them infest residential dwellings. Approximately 30 of these species include cockroaches that will enter homes across the world. However, only five or so are going to impact residents of Ohio. It is vital to know what you’re dealing with. To do that, you need to learn more about the cockroach species in your home. Once you’ve identified the species, you’ll know a lot more about the problem you’re contending with.

You’ll know why they’re in your home, how to eliminate them, and how to keep them from returning. Some cockroach species are worse than others. Some will enter your home, but others will not. Below, you’re going to learn more about some of the cockroach species in your home and why they’re there.

Common Cockroaches In Cincinnati

Ultimately, there are two common cockroach species in Cincinnati. The two most common are German cockroaches and American cockroaches. These cockroaches can be found in Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana.

German

German cockroaches aren’t the biggest since they barely grow over half an inch. They’re light brown and have a unique racing stripe on their head. One of the biggest problems with the German cockroach is the fact that it is a prolific breeder. When you have to deal with this species, act quickly. Otherwise, the population in your home will grow swiftly. They tend to live under warm appliances. German cockroaches develop wings but they do not fly.

American

Residents of Cincinnati will likely run into American cockroaches because they’re common in our area. American cockroaches are difficult to ignore because they’re massive. They can grow more than two inches in length. They’re bigger than most cockroach species. Plus, they can fly. Suffice to say, this combination makes them a frightening pest. It doesn’t help that they can live a long time. Some of these cockroaches can live for several years. The good news is that they rarely infest residential dwellings. Instead, they prefer living in steam tunnels and sewer systems. Having American cockroaches on your property likely means you have a broken sewer pipe somewhere.

There are other cockroaches that you may encounter.

Pennsylvania Wood

Pennsylvania wood cockroaches are common in states close to Pennsylvania. They are native to the Eastern United States so you’re going to find them in Cincinnati. They measure between half an inch and three-quarters of an inch. Rest assured knowing that Pennsylvania wood cockroaches usually aren’t pests. They rarely enter residential dwellings, but they are attracted to lights. They may enter your home by mistake. Also, these cockroaches can live on your property due to stopped gutters or woodpiles.

Spotted Mediterranean

Spotted Mediterranean cockroaches might not seem like a problem, but they are. Don’t be mistaken by their small size because they can create problems. They are roughly a third of an inch and are native to Europe. They came to America in the mid-1900s and have been expanding rapidly since then. These cockroaches can be found in several states, including Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan. They may enter your home, but they generally do not breed inside.

Oriental

Oriental cockroaches are large so they’re difficult to ignore. They can grow larger than an inch and tend to be dark brown or black. These cockroaches share many traits with American cockroaches. Both stay close to sewer systems. The main difference is that Oriental roaches are better equipped to handle cold weather. Don’t be surprised when you find them near your garbage cans.

Smokey Brown Cockroaches

Smokey brown cockroach adults grow over an inch in length. They’re reddish-brown and appear shiny. These cockroaches tend to stay in the deep south, but they can be found in Ohio. They can hide in packages and travel to faraway states. These cockroaches are similar to American and Oriental cockroaches. The difference is that they are one color and have full wings.

Surinam

These cockroaches are roughly three-quarters and have light tan wings. These cockroaches are rarely found in Ohio because they prefer warm locations. You likely won’t see them. If you do, they’re going to be found in warm buildings. They often take shelter in an atrium or greenhouse. All of these cockroaches are female. They hold eggs and give live births.

Brown-Banded

Finally, you may encounter brand-banded cockroaches. They’re half an inch and tan. Although they look like German roaches, they do not have racing stripes. They can infest dwellings, but these cockroaches are not common in our area.

Reasons For Cockroaches

Why would cockroaches enter your home? Ultimately, it is difficult to know why cockroaches have decided to invade your home. You’ll need to figure out which species you’re dealing with. Once you’ve done that, you’ll have a better idea why they’ve entered your home. Many cockroach species thrive in residential dwellings because they can find food there. However, other species prefer staying in sewer systems.

Cockroach Risks

You may believe that you can brush off a cockroach infestation, but you shouldn’t. You have to understand that cockroaches are incredibly dangerous. As the infestation grows, the dangers become worse. Cockroaches are not dangerous because they do not attack humans. However, they pose risks in other ways. For instance, there is a risk that they’re going to contaminate your food. If this happens, you may eat the contaminated food and develop salmonella or another illness. Another issue is that cockroaches can cause asthma symptoms to worsen.

You can’t let cockroaches live in your home. Doing so will be risky. Get rid of them so you can protect the ones you love.

Removing The Infestation

How can you eliminate a cockroach infestation in your home? Initially, you may think it is a good idea to eliminate the cockroaches by using DIY methods, but this is not a good idea. Cockroaches are dangerous and the DIY products can be too. If you use these products haphazardly, you’re going to experience serious issues. You don’t want this to happen. You need to take steps to protect your health. You’ll also want to rely on more effective techniques. We offer the most reliable removal services. Our exterminators have been eliminating cockroaches for many years. We’re confident that we’ll get rid of them for you.

When Can It Begin?

Contact our local office to take advantage of our cockroach infestation today. We’ll get back to you in 24 hours or so.

Our Cockroach Treatments Are Safe

Our exterminators offer safe cockroach solutions. We strive to use non-toxic methods to eliminate the pests in your home. If you’re worried about protecting the ones you love, work with us. Our exterminators have been taught how to fix the problem without causing dangers. We only use EPA-registered products to ensure that your loved ones will be okay.

Preventing Cockroach Infestations

It is a good idea to take steps to prevent cockroaches from invading your home. It is pertinent to keep your home clean and tidy. Clean up any messes and spills as quickly as possible. You’ll also want to deal with gaps and cracks in your home. Make sure that the cockroaches on the outside cannot enter your home. If you find cockroaches around your home, contact us.

If you have any other pest control issues please check out other services.