Even if you’re not bothered by bugs, you should be disturbed by finding a cockroach in your home. In fact, there are several reasons that you should be disgusted by a cockroach. Learn why cockroaches in your Ventura County home could be the sign of a serious problem and what you should do to prevent them.
What Are American Cockroaches?
Out of all the house-infesting cockroaches in the United States, the American cockroach is the largest. Depending on where you are, you might hear them referred to as a palmetto bug or water bug.
On average, this insect grows between 1.4 and 1.6 inches in length. However, a large roach could be longer than two inches. This type of cockroach is reddish-brown and has a yellow band behind its head.
The Danger Of Cockroaches
There are very few people who welcome cockroaches into their homes. But not everyone realizes just how dangerous these pests are. If you find one in your Ventura County home, you should be concerned.
Cockroaches pick up pathogens as they walk around dumpsters and other filthy places. When they enter your abode, they track those pathogens into your home via the spines on their legs. These insect can spread more than 33 types of bacteria, some of which are highly dangerous.
Cockroaches also leave behind feces and saliva that could trigger an allergic reaction or asthma attack. If you have a cockroach infestation in your home, you and your family are at risk.
Another issue with cockroaches is their hardiness and ability to breed quickly. At first, you may only have one or two insects in your home. But it will only be a matter of time before you have a problem that spirals out of control.
Signs Of An Infestation
Generally, there are four obvious signs that American cockroaches have taken over your home. If you notice any of the following, it is a sure sign that you have an infestation:
- You See Them – Although cockroaches are good at hiding, they are not invisible. Especially as an infestation grows you are likely to see a few roaches scurrying across the floor or in your food.
- You See Droppings – Cockroaches leave droppings everywhere they go. In dark areas of your home, you could find piles of cockroach droppings. They are easily mistaken for mouse droppings. If you are uncertain you should contact a pest control technician to find out which pest is in your home.
- You See Egg Capsules – Have you found long and dark capsules in your home? They may be cockroach egg capsules, which is a tell-tale sign of an infestation.
- You Smell A Musty Smell – If you smell something funny in your home, you might be smelling the pheromones of a cockroach. They have a musty scent that lingers in the air.
How To Prevent Cockroaches
Before you notice the signs of an infestation, you should take action. Keeping your home as clean as possible, will limit the food sources that attract cockroaches. This means storing food properly and vacuuming or sweeping on a regular basis. If your garbage cans don’t have tight seals, buy some that do.
Another way to prevent cockroaches is to seal up cracks and holes in your home. If there are any entrances for bugs, they’ll find a way inside. Do your best to fortify your home by sealing all openings and repairing broken screens.
As a final protective measure, eliminate as much moisture from your home as possible. Repair leaky faucets, ventilate crawl spaces, and use a dehumidifier.
Work With A Professional
Despite taking the above measures, you could still find yourself battling a cockroach infestation. At that point, you need the guidance and expertise of a professional. If you see signs of cockroaches in your home, don’t put yourself or your family’s health at risk. Instead, contact the professionals at Ventura County Pest Control.
