More Cockroach Information
Cockroaches are mechanical transmitters of diseases including food poisoning, salmonella and E. coli. Evidence grows implicating German roach feces and “dander” in the increased incidence of asthma among children living in chronically infested apartments. In Northern California the most common species of cockroaches that we encounter are the German Cockroach and the Oriental Cockroach.
German roaches prefer warm, humid living conditions and can often be found indoors near food and water, especially kitchens and bathrooms. Adults are light brown or tan in color and about 1/2" long with two stripes running lengthwise behind the head. This species of cockroach has the highest reproductive potential of all roaches. The female can produce about 50 eggs at a time, and carries the egg capsule until they eggs are ready to hatch.
Oriental Cockroaches like dark and damp places, and live in moist areas around the yard and landscape. Often called a "water bug" they are commonly harbored in sewers and storm drains. Pavement cracks, water meter boxes, and landscape features can offer these nocturnal wanderers harborage during the day. An adult Oriental Roach is dark brown, almost black in color and 1" - 1 1/2" in length.
Frequently Asked Roach/Cockroach Questions (FAQ)
How do you solve my cockroach problem?
We use a 4-step process to thoroughly control cockroaches.
Inspection: It is critical to identify the particular type of roaches that are bothering you. Knowing the characteristics of the invading roaches will affect how these pests are eliminated. Inspecting the property is important for locating the source and causes that encourage roaches.
Modify environment conditions: Your Killroy pest management professional will look for and change any environmental conditions that might encourage roaches. This could include trimming plants away from the building or eliminating food sources that are attracting the cockroaches.
Establish and implement a plan: Your Killroy pest management professional will consider the most effective and least toxic approach to get rid of your roach problem. He will explain his plan which may require customer/tenant participation and answer any questions you may have. He will then carefully treat the situation.
Monitor the process: It is important to monitor the situation until it is resolved. If there is any sign of returning roaches, your technician will gladly come back at no additional charge to make the appropriate adjustments to ensure the problem gets taken care of completely.
What can I do to prevent cockroaches from returning after treatment?
Our roach control and cockroach treatment methods focus on the roaches' hiding places. Baiting is the current gold standard for roach control in occupied buildings. While baiting takes a week or two to control the problem, it gives a greater level of lasting control and uses less chemicals. In addition to Killroy Pest Control treatment, it is important to combine proper sanitation and harborage reductions for effective cockroach control including the following tips:
- Store foods in airtight containers, not cardboard boxes or paper bags. Use glass or Tupperware containers.
- Remove garbage bags daily and keep the storage area clean.
- Clean stovetops and ovens regularly, especially under burners where greasy residue collects. Clean under and behind appliances.
- Keep dishes clean and avoid leaving spillage or food out.
- Seal cracks and openings around pipes and under sinks.
