Cockroaches

For homeowners and renters in Tucson, a cockroach infestation can be frightening. These pests are incredibly dangerous because they can contaminate your food sources and make you sick. As the cockroaches reproduce and the infestation grows, the health risks are going to climb significantly higher. Roughly 30 cockroach species enter and live in human buildings. It is pertinent to learn more about the species in your home so you’ll know how to get rid of them. Some species do not enter or reproduce in human dwellings, but others do.

Which Species Are In Tucson?

Tucson is home to several cockroach species. Two of the most common include American cockroaches and German cockroaches.

German

Tucson residents may encounter German cockroaches in the future. These cockroaches can grow over half an inch and they have a pair of racing stripes on their heads. They’re prolific breeders so it only takes a few pests to create a full-blown infestation in your home. A female German cockroach can lay as many as 30 to 40 eggs at once. She’ll create five egg capsules during her lifetime. In residential dwellings, they hide under warm appliances.

American

American cockroaches tend to stay outside, but they’re difficult to ignore. At the maximum, they can grow up to two inches. They’re reddish-brown and tend to be one of the largest cockroaches that can fly. They live longer than most cockroach species since it takes them up to two years to mature. They won’t infest a building quickly. They prefer staying close to moist locations, including steam tunnels and sewer systems. When you find American cockroaches on your property, you need to begin searching for busted sewer pipes.

Other species you may encounter include Pennsylvania wood cockroaches, Brown-banded cockroaches, and others.

Pennsylvania Wood Cockroaches

Although they belong to the same species, male and female Pennsylvania wood cockroaches look much different. Adult males are slightly larger than females. The latter can grow up to three-quarters of an inch but they have shorter wings than males. They’re native to the Eastern portion of the United States and usually aren’t a pest. Even though they may enter your home, they generally will not reproduce indoors.

Spotted Mediterranean Cockroaches

These small cockroaches are close to a third of an inch. They have dark speckles but they’re light tan. The European cockroach came to America in the mid-1900s. Since then, they’ve expanded across the country. They can be found in our area, but you don’t need to worry about them too much. They don’t reproduce inside of human dwellings.

Oriental Cockroaches

Oriental cockroaches are large with some growing over an inch. They’re black or dark brown and females never grow wings. Males have wings that cover three-quarters of their bodies. They are attracted to the same things as American cockroaches. The primary difference is that they can handle cold weather better so you might find them hiding around your garbage cans.

Smokey Brown Cockroaches

Smokey brown cockroaches grow over an inch in length and they’re reddish-brown. They are frequently found in the southern United States, but they can be found in our area as well. Adults have full wings and they’re one color.

Surinam Cockroaches

When dealing with Surinam cockroaches, you have to remember that they’re all female. These cockroaches hold eggs and give live births. They do not like cold weather but they can be found in our area. They’re three-quarters of an inch in length and have light tan wings.

Brown-Banded Cockroaches

Finally, you may need to worry about brown-banded cockroaches. They’re half an inch. They’re often mistaken for German cockroaches. However, you can look closely and see that they do not have racing stripes. Thankfully, these cockroaches do not invade residential dwellings often.

Why Are Cockroaches In My Home?

Cockroaches often invade homes because they’re looking for food to consume. If your home isn’t clean, they might be able to find food crumbs or open bags. However, it is important to understand that not all cockroaches invade homes. Some are attracted to broken sewer pipes and others stay close to blocked gutters.

Cockroach Dangers

Homeowners need to worry about cockroaches since they’re dangerous. If the problem is not rapidly addressed, it could spiral out of control. As the colony gets bigger, the risks grow. Unfortunately, cockroaches can spread dangerous illnesses. They often move through garbage and human waste. They can spread bacteria and make someone sick. In some cases, they’ll cause diarrhea, dysentery, and food poisoning. However, cockroaches do not bite or attack people.

Eliminating An Infestation

Find a way to deal with the infestation swiftly. Thankfully, you have several options. For instance, you can try using DIY methods. Although they might work, they are not always effective. Furthermore, some of the common DIY methods are unsafe. Most will agree that it isn’t worth saving a few dollars. Relying on professional exterminators is often the best way to get rid of the pests.

When Can The Extermination Begin?

Call us and set up an appointment right now. We’ll contact you within 48 hours and arrive soon after that.

Our Cockroach Treatments Are Safe

We offer safe cockroach treatments. We always use EPA-registered products when eliminating cockroaches from our clients’ buildings. These products are effective yet safe around people and pets. They are minimally toxic so they won’t pose any risks. Do you have any questions about our services? Call our office to learn more.

Preventing Cockroach Invasions

Clean your home thoroughly to prevent cockroaches from invading your dwelling. You can also seal the gaps on the exterior walls of your home to keep them out. Finally, make sure that your home’s humidity levels are low. Have you found cockroaches in your home? Pick up the phone and call us to deal with it.

If you have any other pest control issues please check out other services.