Cockroaches

What are cockroaches?

Cockroaches are identified by their flattened, oval-shaped bodies and six legs that are covered in spines. Their long antennae are usually either the same length as or longer than their bodies. Cockroaches are found living in urban, suburban, and rural environments; their adaptability has allowed them to successfully live around people in very large numbers. Cockroaches are nocturnal, hiding during the day and emerging at night to forage for food. The German cockroach is the most common species living in our area. German cockroaches are a small species. Their bodies are light brown to tan in color, and they have unique black stripes that run horizontally down behind their heads.

Are cockroaches dangerous?

Yes, cockroaches are dangerous. They are responsible for contaminating food sources, objects, and surfaces in homes and businesses with dangerous bacteria, human pathogens, and parasites that they carry on their bodies and legs. Their feces, saliva, and shed skins can trigger allergies and asthma attacks, especially in children or in people with weak immune systems. Before finding their way into your home, these cockroaches were most likely traveling through excrement, sewers, carrions, garage piles, and other unsanitary environments.

Why do I have a cockroach problem?

Cockroaches become problematic inside of Lakewood homes or businesses after they have found their way inside while foraging for food, or after accidentally being introduced in deliveries, used furniture, used appliances, or potted plants. Common entry points for cockroaches include cracks and crevices in the foundation or exterior walls of your property, spaces around doors and windows, open windows, drains and vents, and spaces around air conditioners.

Where will I find cockroaches?

German cockroaches like to live and nest indoors in dark, humid, secluded places. They are common invaders of homes and restaurants. When living inside, cockroaches hideout and nest behind appliances or underneath cabinets in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. While German cockroaches prefer living inside, many species prefer an outdoor lifestyle; some species of cockroaches can be found living on trees, in mulch, in garden areas, and in sewers or drains.

How do I get rid of cockroaches?

To eliminate current problems with cockroaches, as well as prevent future problems, it is best to partner with an experienced professional. At Bugaboo Pest Control, our professionals provide customers with the residential or commercial pest control services needed to solve your unique cockroach problem. To learn more about our full-service cockroach extermination services that are offered throughout New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, and northern Delaware, contact Bugaboo Pest Control today!

How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?

Cockroaches create an unsightly presence in your New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, and northern Deleware home or business, but the following tips can deter them:

• Make sure weather stripping is placed around all exterior windows and doors.

• Seal gaps or cracks in the foundation and exterior walls of your home.

• Use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels in your home.

• Replace torn window or door screens.

• Fix leaky pipes, fixtures, and faucets.

• Make sure that outdoor trash cans have locking lids.

• Keep outdoor eating areas clean and free of food debris.

• Inside of your home, keep all food in airtight containers or the refrigerator.

• Wash dirty dishes, remove trash from your home daily, vacuum regularly, and wipe down counters daily.