Cockroaches belong to the order Blattodea. With over 4,500 known species worldwide, 30 different species are everyday household invaders. Most are social insects that nest in areas with high cockroach concentrations due to pheromones that attract mates.
They are extremely durable, nocturnal, and prolific breeders, making them a threat to any household. Populations may go unnoticed before exploding in a short period.
Cockroaches are identified by their long, flat, oval bodies with small heads, long thin antennae, six legs, and shiny dark exoskeletons. They have large compound eyes with mandibles under their heads.
1/2 inch to 2 inches (up to 4 inches for largest species)
Flat, oval with small head and 6 legs
Most males have wings, not all fly. Most females wingless.
Infestations can get out of hand quickly. Identify problems as soon as possible by looking for these signs:
Resembles black pepper or coffee grounds
Active or deceased cockroaches
Leathery brown capsules
Shed exoskeletons as nymphs grow
Unpleasant pheromone smell
Warning: Cockroaches spread deadly pathogens. Deal with activity as soon as signs are found to manage population growth.
Cockroaches prefer dark, warm, and humid environments. They stay hidden until night and avoid well-lit areas. They will scurry under the nearest hiding spot when lights are turned on. Look for them near moisture and food sources:
Cockroaches are nocturnal social insects that gather in small clusters. While not hive-minded like ants or termites, they communicate using pheromones excreted through body glands and feces.
Helps find food, water, shelter, and mates. Identifies same-species cockroaches to maximize mating chances. Stronger smell = safer nest with abundant resources.
Food, water, shelter, and mates. Pheromones lead them to locations where other cockroaches have found these resources.
Seeing roaches usually indicates a larger infestation. Get professional help now.
Call (866) 326-2847Size: Up to 2 inches
Color: Reddish brown
Size: 1/2 inch
Color: Light brown
Size: About 1 inch
Color: Shiny black or dark brown
Size: Similar to German
Color: 2 brown bands across back
Cockroaches are extremely adaptable and pervasive. They can fit through cracks as thin as a dime:
Foundation, wall cavities, pipe entry points
Oriental roaches can swim through sink and toilet drains
Attracted to light when dark outside
German roaches ride in groceries, furniture, cardboard boxes
If neighbors have an infestation, roaches may spread
Cockroaches do not have stingers but are not completely harmless. They may bite humans in rare cases when food is scarce (not venomous, typically painless). The real dangers are:
Carry dangerous pathogens from where they live to your food
Can carry parasites that infect humans
Contaminate food, preparation surfaces, utensils, and dishes
Waste, shed skin, and dried saliva break down into dust that contaminates air
Prevention is the first step in managing cockroach populations. Cleaning and sanitation are critical:
Seeing cockroaches usually indicates a much larger infestation. Our licensed team has years of experience effectively terminating cockroach problems. We will inspect your property, determine how severe the problem is, and create a customized treatment strategy.
Cockroaches are afraid of disturbances and avoid anything they deem a threat, including humans, pets, and larger animals or bugs. These trigger a fear reaction to hide when discovered.
Cockroaches thrive in areas rich with food and water including trash and sewers. This exposes them to rotting or decaying food and sewage that likely carries dangerous pathogens.
Cockroaches can bite humans on occasion, but bites are typically painless and not a major threat. The biggest danger is food contamination and disease spread.
Very difficult because they hide and reproduce rapidly. Egg cases are not affected by traditional treatments, so even after eradication, eggs may hatch and cause a resurgence. Professional help is often required for complete elimination.
