American Cockroaches In Longview: Identification, Prevention, And Control

May 15, 2023

Cockroaches are common intruders in residential, commercial, and institutional settings of all kinds. Cockroaches exist in outdoor environments such as residential areas, and these scavengers will capitalize on opportunities to move indoors, seeking food, water, and shelter.

As omnivores, cockroaches are highly adaptable and often thrive in environments occupied by humans. Some of the various types of cockroaches that create problems for local property owners include German cockroaches, American cockroaches, oriental cockroaches, and smokey-brown cockroaches.

How can I safely expel cockroaches from my home? Today, pest management companies have a host of treatment methods that will oust these unwanted critters. A properly trained Longview pest control professional knows how to get rid of cockroaches in your house and how to keep cockroaches away from the property.

Identifying American Cockroaches In Longview

Often referred to as palmetto bugs, American cockroaches (Periplaneta americana) are among the large cockroach species found in Texas, often reaching lengths of 1 ½ to 2 inches long. Equipped with wings, American cockroaches will often take flight, and they also move fast on their feet. Immature cockroaches (nymphs) appear in shades of brown or grey, but they soon molt and appear reddish-brown with yellow markings. Adult cockroaches often have a lifespan of one to two years.

Can all cockroaches fly? Many cockroach species have wings, yet, most are weak fliers.

Why American Cockroaches Are Considered Dangerous

What are some of the types of diseases that cockroaches carry? Cockroaches pose various health risks, including E. coli, typhoid fever, and salmonellosis. As these pests move through a home, they shed their skin and saliva, urine, and dropping accumulate, which may aggravate allergies among occupants.

Do American cockroaches bite humans? Although the species could bite humans, incidents are rare. Cockroaches are not aggressive toward humans and typically scurry away quickly into hiding when encountered.

Helpful Tips To Prevent American Cockroach Infestations

What are some of the best ways how to prevent cockroaches from entering your home? Some of the most effective preventative measures include:

Promptly place leftovers in the refrigerator or durable, sealed containers and remove uneaten pet food bowls.
Keep the kitchen floors free of crumbs and countertops and sinks wiped down.
Trash bags with food scraps must remain in containers with a tightly fitting lid preventing access.
Closely inspect the exterior area of the home near the foundation for crevices that might develop, and fill them with a weatherproof sealant.
Repair any torn window screens and install sweeps along exterior doors if gaps exist.

While taking proactive steps to limit cockroach intrusions are usually effective, existing cockroach infestations are best handled by a licensed pest control professional.

Professional Cockroach Control Is The Best Solution

What is the best way to get rid of American cockroaches? Cockroaches are extremely durable creatures that typically retreat into hiding during the daytime and emerge after dark. Meanwhile, females create sacs or capsules containing more than a dozen eggs, which results in rapidly expanding infestations. Contacting a local provider of home pest control solutions is the best option for dealing with these undesirable bugs.

Since entering the pest control business in 2000, Gecko Pest Control has continually provided the highest quality solutions for residential and commercial customers facing intrusions from bothersome and often harmful pests. As a truly full-service operation, we maintain a team of properly trained technicians with many of the latest products and equipment needed to expel unwanted pests. Our experts will deliver results for those struggling with bed bugs, fire ants, fleas, ticks, and many other troublesome creatures that might pose significant human health risks.