About the German Cockroach
The German cockroach is one of the most troublesome pests in the United States. It is found in households across the nation and in every continent except for Antarctica.
Because of their resilience, rapid reproduction, and preference for warmer climates, German roaches are a common problem in households and businesses across the states of Georgia and South Carolina. They are generally more troublesome than their larger cousins, the American Cockroach.
Cockroaches are disease-carriers and should be dealt with as soon as possible. If you’re seeing roaches around the home or in your work environment, contact Compass Pest Management to get a free inspection & estimate!
Read on to learn how to identify, prevent, and treat German cockroach infestations.
Appearance
- Length: about 1.1 – 1.6 cm (0.43 – 0.63 in)
- Color: ranges from tan to dark brown
- Distinguishing marks: two dark streaks starting behind the head and ending at the base of the wings
Habitat
German cockroaches frequently make their homes in households and businesses, preferring warm and humid areas. They can be commonly found in:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Laundry rooms
- Basements
- Cracks & crevices in foundation, walls, porches, & walkways
- Crawl spaces
- Yards
- Sewers
Behavior & Diet
German cockroaches can live off of a very small amount of food—part of the reason they can be so difficult to get rid of. They scavenge for a wide variety of foods and materials, including:
- Crumbs
- Grease spots
- Pet food
- Dirty dish residue
- Soap
- Toothpaste
- Glue
Being nocturnal, they prefer to hide in dark areas and forage at night. German cockroaches have wings, but very rarely fly. They can run quickly when disturbed.
How do German cockroaches get into homes and businesses?
German cockroaches are often transported between buildings inside of boxes, bags, appliances, and more. They can also enter homes or businesses through cracks in doorways, windows, garages, sewer lines, air ducts, and other openings.
Signs of a German cockroach infestation
You may have an infestation if you see the following signs:
- Small roaches active in the home, during the night or day
- Small dark droppings in basements, cupboards, or behind appliances. May appear as small dots or smears.
- Empty egg capsules in hidden spots
- A musty odor
Treating & preventing German cockroach infestations
If you think you have a serious infestation, you’ll want to contact a pest control professional. Because they reproduce so quickly and live off of so little, German cockroaches can be one of the toughest pests to deal with. There are steps you can take to mitigate the problem, including:
- Seal small cracks in walls, windows, doors, and foundations
- Keep all food in sealed containers and do not leave crumbs, food residue, or dirty dishes out in the open
- Vacuum floors weekly
- Spray doors, windows, cracks, and crevices with a cockroach repellent
- Lay cockroach bait traps in corners, under sinks, near toilets, and other water sources
Professional cockroach treatment in Georgia & South Carolina
Compass Pest Management is an award-winning, family-owned pest control company that serves clients in Georgia and South Carolina. Our friendly staff go the extra mile to make sure your cockroach problem is dealt with quickly, effectively, and affordably. Contact us to schedule a FREE inspection and estimate today, or learn more about our services.
About Compass Pest Management
A leading pest control company in Cornelia, GA, Compass Pest Management also provides pest control in Greenville and Anderson, SC . We offer residential and commercial pest control services for termites, ants, cockroaches, mosquitoes, bed bugs, and more. We also offer wildlife removal services and TAP insulation, an insulation product that doubles as built-in pest control. We’re committed to using the safest, EPA-approved products to keep you and your family safe, healthy, and comfortable. Contact us for effective, local pest control services you can trust.