Cockroaches

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What do American cockroaches look like?

American cockroaches are reddish-brown to mahogany colored and are identified by a distinctive yellow band behind their heads.

Life cycle of American roaches

American cockroaches undergo a gradual metamorphosis and reproduce at a slower rate in comparison to other cockroach species. Females deposit egg cases (oothecae) in hidden areas or will glue them to the side of a structure. Up to 16 immature cockroaches (nymphs) will emerge from the case in 5 to 7 weeks. Nymphs will molt 10 or more times in a year before becoming an adult. Adult cockroaches can live up to one year producing an average of 150 young during that time.

Habits of American cockroaches

• Diet: Anything including meats and grease, starches, sweets, leather, wallpaper paste, book bindings and sizing.
• Activity: Nocturnal
• Preferred Climate: Warm and humid environments
• Defense: Speed
• Cautions: Cockroaches have been linked to human illnesses like allergies, food poisoning, dysentery, diarrhea, and childhood asthma.
• Home Invasion: These cockroaches are often known as sewer roaches and are primarily found outdoors. They occasionally enter homes. Spotting fecal pellets, egg cases, caste skins or smelling an identifiable odor can be a sign of cockroach infestations. Validating suspicions an infestation exists can be achieved by examining the area with a flashlight at night.

Are American cockroaches dangerous?

Bites are not a concern. More often the spreading of disease is the most to worry about.

Where do American cockroaches nest?

Common nesting sites of the American cockroach include: 

• Moist, humid or dry environments
• Food storage and preparation areas
• Basements and landscaping

Helpful hints 

To keep American cockroaches out of your home, we recommend:

• Regular sanitation practices
• Eliminating water sources
• Repairing plumbing fixtures
• Sign up for a regular pest control service plan  

Interesting facts about the American cockroach

American cockroaches are the largest house infesting roach.