Common Types Of Cockroaches In Baltimore And How To Keep Them Away

When you think about pest control, the first problem many think about is cockroaches. There are many types of cockroaches that invade and infest homes, and pest control in Baltimore relies on information about these pests. Here are some tips on identifying and preventing cockroaches from the pest specialists at ATC Pest Control.

Common Types Of Roaches Found In Baltimore

Throughout the country, there are a number of roaches that plague homeowners. The three most common species of cockroaches are American cockroaches, German cockroaches, and Oriental cockroaches. These three cockroaches share a few common characteristics, such as being relatively flat and oval-shaped compared to other insects, but each one is easily identifiable.

American cockroaches are the largest, with adults ranging between 1 1/4 to 2 1/8 inches long and are reddish-brown with a yellowish figure-eight pattern on the back of their heads. German cockroaches are recognizable by their light brown to tan coloring with two dark lines on their backs. And they measure from 1/2 inch to 5/8 inches long. Oriental cockroaches are a shiny black to dark reddish-brown and are 1 inch when fully grown. It’s not uncommon to be invaded by multiple species of cockroaches at the same time.

Cockroaches In Your House Can Make You Sick

While most know that cockroaches are a nuisance and never a welcome presence for homeowners, you may not be aware of the hidden dangers they carry. Cockroaches are carriers of numerous diseases, including dysentery, that can spread to your food and property. Additionally, cockroach droppings can trigger many health hazards, from allergies to asthma in large quantities.

Cockroaches will contaminate food sources, utensils, and cooking surfaces with harmful bacteria on contact. Be sure to clean surfaces regularly, especially if you suspect a cockroach infestation is possible or present. While rare, cockroaches may also bite, which can lead to infection and the need for medical attention. Don’t take chances when dealing with pests, contact professionals for assistance as soon as possible.

Practical Cockroach Prevention Tips For Your Home

Preventing cockroaches from infesting your home can seem daunting at first. Cockroaches reproduce exponentially, and there is often more than one going unseen. However, these tips to reduce the chances of a cockroach infestation may be simpler than expected.

• Practice good sanitation. Cockroaches infest your home in search of food, shelter, and water. Regularly cleaning your house will reduce their food sources significantly.
• Reduce outside access points for cockroaches and other pests, such as cracks or holes in exterior walls.
• Reduce humidity by fixing leaky or damaged pipes and using dehumidifiers if necessary. Cockroaches prefer warm and humid environments.
• Seal gaps in windows, drains, and vents that cockroaches could enter and travel through.
• Regularly schedule inspections with your local pest control specialists to prevent undetected infestations from occurring. Cockroaches are, by nature, stealthy creatures that can go undetected in the right circumstances, so don’t take chances.

Although these tips are helpful, the best way to get rid of cockroaches is with help from the pest specialist at ATC Pest Control.

The Most Effective Cockroach Control For Baltimore Homeowners

Cockroach control is difficult as once an infestation begins, it’s nearly impossible for an individual homeowner to remove it successfully. Because of this difficulty and the threats behind cockroach infestations, it’s best to leave it to professional home pest control specialists. Pest control technicians have access to equipment and knowledge that is not readily available to the average consumer, giving them an edge over most pest infestations.

Your house can be protected from cockroaches and other pests all year long. Contact ATC Pest Control for a free estimate or to schedule an inspection.