While most people can identify a cockroach, few individuals know much about the dangerous cockroaches found in Dallas. Find out everything you should know about the creepy critter and learn how to keep it away from your home.
Common Cockroach Species In Dallas
In the United States, there are 69 species of cockroaches. However, not all of those species are considered household pests. Only a few of them actually make their way into homes. In Dallas, there are four species that you might come across.
- German Cockroach - This cockroach varies from tan to black in color. Typically, adults measure between 11 and 16 millimeters. This species is not capable of flying.
- Brown-Banded Cockroach - Measuring up to 14 millimeters long, brown-banded cockroaches aren’t the largest type of cockroach in the area. They are brown or dark brown and much like the German cockroach, this species cannot fly.
- Oriental Cockroach - Larger than German or brown-banded cockroaches, this species averages between 18 and 29 millimeters in length. They tend to be dark brown or black.
- American Cockroach - By far the largest common local species, the American cockroach is approximately 50 millimeters long. It’s reddish-brown or mahogany in color.
Why Are Cockroaches Bad?
It’s no secret that cockroaches are undesired insects. Although most people know that cockroaches are bad, few realize the extent of their danger. Cockroaches can cause several health hazards.
When cockroaches are wandering around looking for food, they end up in dirty places. Restaurant alleys, garbage cans, and dumpsters are frequent hangouts for these pests. As cockroaches walk around these areas, they pick up pathogens.
If a cockroach walks into your home, it can be bringing a pathogen with it. Wherever it goes, it could leave behind particles that make you sick. They spread diseases like typhoid, salmonellosis, and cholera.
Even if a cockroach doesn’t carry a pathogen, it has the potential to affect your health. Some people have allergic reactions to these insects. Individuals with asthma or allergies may notice a flare in their symptoms.
How To Identify And Prevent An Infestation
Before you find signs of an infestation, you should try to prevent cockroaches from entering your home. Because cockroaches come from outside, you should seal up all potential entrances. Caulk cracks in your foundation or small holes. Check your screens for rips or gaps and replaces screen if necessary.
By keeping a clean home, you can also limit your chance of a pest problem. Don’t leave food out overnight and clean up leftover crumbs. After a meal, sweep or vacuum your floor. Be sure to store any food in your pantry in sealed containers.
The Signs Of An Infestations
No matter how hard you try to prevent cockroaches from taking over your home, nature might have other plans. It’s important to know how to identify an infestation.
There are a few signs of a cockroach infestation. Of course, one of the most obvious is seeing a roach. If you see one, you have more hiding out somewhere. Another indication of a problem is finding droppings. Typically, the droppings accumulate in corners or under stoves and refrigerators.
Some people find egg casings. These are long and hollow objects that appear light brown in color. By the time you find a casing, the eggs have already hatched. Considering that one casing could have between 20 and 50 eggs, you probably have a serious problem.
If you see signs of cockroaches in your Dallas home, don't put your family's health at risk. Before the problem gets worse, contact the professionals at Dynasty Pest Control. We’re ready to take on your pest troubles and help you maintain a safe and cockroach-free home.