German Cockroach (Blattella Germanic):
The German cockroach (Blattella germanica) is one of the most commonly found worldwide, especially in urban environments.
German Roach vs American Roach
- Appearance: German cockroaches are smaller and light brown with two dark stripes, while American cockroaches are larger and reddish-brown with a distinctive yellowish pattern on the head.
- Nesting Habits: German cockroaches are primarily indoor pests, nesting in kitchens and bathrooms, whereas American cockroaches can nest both outdoors and indoors in humid environments.
- Diet: Both species are omnivorous scavengers, but German cockroaches are particularly skilled at exploiting food sources indoors, while American cockroaches have a broader diet.
- Damage: Both species can contaminate food supplies and spread pathogens, but German cockroaches are more commonly associated with indoor infestations and property damage.
- Behavior: Both are nocturnal, but German cockroaches are more agile climbers and tend to infest multiple areas indoors, while American cockroaches are more versatile in their nesting locations.
How to get rid of German Roaches
Controlling infestations typically involves a combination of sanitation, exclusion, and insecticide applications.
- Remove access to any food or water sources. Opt to store food in air-tight containers rather than original packaging.
- Check grocery packages that you bring home from stores. This roach is a hitchhiker of the insect world.
- Declutter the home of any cardboard and opt for plastic storage bins instead.
- Seal entry points such as gaps and cracks on the home's exterior.
- Repair any screens with rips or tears.
- Correct any leaks or other water issues.
- Trim trees and shrubs away from the structure of the home.
- Contact a professional pest control company, like Four Seasons Pest Control - we have experience in VA and NC.
These roaches are no joke. With their ability to produce quickly, a situation can get out of hand fast. Leave the task of eliminating a German cockroach infestation to Four Seasons Pest Control. Give us a call at (NC) 252-453-3601 or (VA) 757-729-1744, and we will get rid of your German roaches!
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What is the German Cockroach Life Cycle?
German cockroaches reproduce rapidly, with females capable of producing 4-5 egg cases (oothecae) in their lifetime. Each ootheca contains multiple eggs, and nymphs hatch from these eggs on an average of 28 days. Breeding up to six generations in a year.
They feed on plant and animal matter, including food crumbs, grease, pet food, and even book bindings. German cockroaches are excellent climbers and can easily access food and water sources in elevated locations.
When are German Roaches Active?
This species of roach is most active at night. Evidence suggests they learn food and water source locations. This, in turn, improves their foraging efficiency over time.
Are There Health Risks with German Cockroaches?
These roaches have been spreading a combination of 46 different bacteria, parasitic worms, and pathogens.
They cause allergic reactions in children and can worsen asthma.
What Does a German Cockroach Look Like?
The German cockroach's size is relatively small, usually about 1/8 to 1/2 inch long when fully grown. They are pale brown in color and have two longitudinal dark stripes on the back of their heads.
Can German Cockroaches Fly?
Both sexes do have wings. However, they cannot fly.
Where do German Cockroaches Live?
This particular roach prefers to live in warm and humid environments such as kitchens and bathrooms. One area we see them frequently is the back of a fridge.
They are highly adaptable and can thrive in various environments.