It’s ironic that the most common cockroach here in America is the German cockroach, especially because we also have American cockroaches. But, for some reason, American roaches are much less common. Even more surprising than this, German cockroaches didn’t originate from Germany! They were originally thought to be from Europe, but recent studies are showing they may be from Asia. I guess it's true what they say, America really is a melting pot--even for cockroaches. If you are worried about German cockroaches invading your San Antonio property this winter, Family Pest is here to help.
How To Identify German Cockroaches
German cockroaches are small ½ to ⅝” long insects that are light brown to tan in color. What sets them apart from other species of cockroach here in America are the two dark parallel lines running down their backs. This information, combined with their classic cockroach shape, should allow you to easily identify this creepy crawlies inside your home.
Other Interesting Yet Gross Facts About German Cockroaches
German cockroaches, unlike many of their cousins, cannot tolerate the cold. Temperatures below 0 degrees mean they will not survive very long.
German cockroaches are omnivorous scavengers that will eat practically anything including hair, glue, paper, and even dead human skin and fingernails. (They have been known to take a few nibbles from skin still on us while we are sleeping.)
When German cockroaches get hungry enough, they will often turn to cannibalism, eating members of their nest and even their own young to survive.
Why Cockroaches Invade and How To Stop Them
Unlike many other pests that mostly live in the wild, German cockroaches are almost entirely dependent on human habitats to survive. Crawling through sewer pipes, utility piping, and looking for holes and gaps in a home’s exterior, they will try to find their way into living quarters. Your job as a homeowner is to limit their ability to get inside, and reduce attractants so, if they do get inside, they will have no reason to stay. Here are some practical ways you can do this.
- Use a caulking gun and weather stripping to seal up gaps and cracks in your home's exterior. (feeling around for drafts coming out of your home is a good way to do this)
- Install door sweeps on exterior doors with gaps under them.
- Install fine mesh screens inside your home’s vents.
- Make sure your gutters are working properly and that no pipes are leaking around your home.
- Install dehumidifiers in particularly humid areas of your home.
- Clean regularly and thoroughly. Make sure to include places such as under furniture, appliances, and other household items with gaps beneath them.
- Store leftover food inside plastic containers and keep counters and tabletops clean.
- Pick up pet food and water bowls after they are done being used.
The Best Way To Get and Keep Cockroaches Out Of Your Home
If the above steps seem like a lot, we have an easier solution for you here at Family Pest Control. With our general pest control options, you won’t have to worry about cockroaches at all this winter. To find out which option best suits your needs and the needs of your home, reach out to us today. One of our friendly service representatives will be happy to walk you through your options to find the best one for you.