Types of Cockroaches

Have you spotted one too many uninvited guests scurrying around your kitchen at night? If you live in the Greater DC or Baltimore areas, there’s a good chance those pests are cockroaches. Maryland is home to three common types of cockroaches—German cockroaches, Oriental cockroaches, and American cockroaches—and all have the potential to turn your home into their all-you-can-eat buffet if left unchecked. While they may seem harmless, cockroaches can quickly turn into an infestation if not properly treated. As your trusted pest management professionals serving homes across Maryland, we at All Star Pest Management understand first-hand the stress and frustration caused by unwanted cockroach guests. Read on to learn more about specific types of cockroaches found in the Baltimore area so you’ll know exactly what you’re dealing with and can take the right steps to remove these pests from your home for good.

German Cockroaches

German cockroaches are known for their light brown color and are usually around ½ to 5/8 inches long. They prefer to live in warm places and can often be found in kitchens, bathrooms, and other parts of the house with a lot of moisture. These types of cockroaches feed on anything – from food to glue and even soap. They reproduce quickly and produce many eggs throughout their lifespan. German cockroaches can be a nuisance and spread diseases such as salmonella and gastroenteritis. Their feces and shed skin can also cause allergic reactions in some people.

Oriental Cockroaches

Oriental cockroaches, also known as water bugs, are dark brown or black in color and around 25mm long. They prefer to live in damp places and can often be found in basements, sewers, and drains. These types of cockroaches are scavengers and feed on decaying organic matter. Oriental cockroaches are not as fast as other types but can survive without food for a month or more. They can also spread diseases such as E. coli, and their presence is often accompanied by a bad smell.

American Cockroaches

American cockroaches are reddish-brown in color and are one of the largest types of cockroaches, measuring up to 50mm long. They prefer to live in warm environments and can be often found in kitchens, basements, and water meters. American cockroaches primarily feed on plant matter but will also consume other organic matter if food is scarce. These types of cockroaches produce a strong odor and can spread diseases such as salmonella and dysentery. They can also cause allergic reactions in people.

How to Identify Cockroaches

Identifying cockroaches can be tricky, but there are some telltale signs you can look for. Cockroaches often leave behind droppings that are small and cylindrical in shape. They also shed their skin as they grow and reproduce. Cockroach carcasses are also a clear indicator that you have an infestation. If you see any of these signs, it’s important to act immediately and call a pest control professional.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cockroaches

Anyone who has dealt with a cockroach infestation knows how frustrating it can be to try and rid them from your space. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions (and answers) about cockroaches in Maryland:

How do cockroaches get inside?

Cockroaches can enter homes through tiny crevices, cracks, and pipes.

Why are they so hard to eliminate?

Cockroaches are notoriously resilient pests, capable of surviving harsh conditions and reproducing quickly.

Are they a health hazard?

Yes, according to the National Center for Healthy Housing, cockroaches increase asthmatic symptoms and can spread germs and bacteria, making them a potential health risk to humans. It’s important to take any signs of infestation seriously and take preventative measures to keep these pests at bay.

Do cockroaches bite?

According to Prevention.com, some species of cockroaches are capable of biting, it is unlikely that you will ever be bitten by a cockroach. Cockroaches are not aggressive insects and are more interested in finding food and shelter than in attacking humans. Additionally, their mouthparts are not well-suited for biting, and they are more likely to feed on other insects or on decaying organic matter.

Do cockroaches fly?

Yes, many species of cockroach can fly, although some are better flyers than others. Flight is a key survival strategy for many cockroaches, allowing them to quickly escape from danger or to find a new food source. However, most cockroach species are more likely to run than to fly.

Eliminate Cockroaches for Good with Help from the Professionals

Although cockroaches may be small in size, they pose a big threat to our homes and health. With proper knowledge and help from professionals at All Star Pest Management in Maryland, we can prevent these unwanted creatures from invading our homes. Don’t wait until they become a bigger problem; act now to protect your family and home from these unsanitary insects. If you ever come across a cockroach in your house or suspect their presence, don’t hesitate to call All Star Pest Management at 410-772-0204. We serve the Greater DC and Baltimore areas, including Howard, Baltimore, Prince George’s, and Anne Arundel Counties and the surrounding areas. Our experienced team can help you put an end to these roaches once and for all with one of our pest control plans! Take control of your home again and say goodbye to these troublesome pests for good.