Newest Catch of the Week: German Cockroaches

April 22, 2016

This week our technicians were called to a home in West Des Moines with a terrible German cockroach infestation. As you can see in the picture above, there are quite a few of them. As the weather begins to warm up in the Des Moines metro, German cockroach populations will begin to spike. This will leave them to search for damp environments that unfortunately happen to be our kitchens and bathrooms more times than not.

Characteristics of German Cockroaches

Out of the four types of cockroaches that are most prevalent in Iowa, the German cockroaches are the most common. German cockroaches reach about 13-16 mm, are tan or light brown in color, and have two horizontal black stripes on the pronotum which is located right behind their head. And while adult German cockroaches do have wings they prefer to run rather than fly.

 

German Cockroach Behavior

Though German cockroaches can live outdoors and typically in tropical environments, they are most commonly found indoors. Since these pests are attracted to structures with warm and humid areas, homes or businesses quickly become a target. If found inside they will most likely be located in kitchens or bathrooms due to the warmer temperatures in these areas. However, they will move to other spaces of the building if there is food and moisture available.

 

Detecting a German Cockroach Infestation

There are three signs that will indicate a German cockroach infestation has occurred within your home or business. These signs include droppings, egg capsules, and odor. German cockroach droppings are a slightly raised small, dark material that will be left on open areas such as countertops or on drawers. German cockroach females carry their eggs for about 1 to 2 days, therefore, empty egg cases could be found around the home as well. And last, but certainly not least is the odor that German cockroaches carry with them, especially when there are large herds of them. The odor is usually described as 'musty.'

 

Des Moines German Cockroach Removal

Don't let German cockroaches take over your home or business. Take care of them effectively and efficiently with Preferred Pest! Since the best way to take care of a German cockroach infestation is with insecticide baits, and not sprays it is important that a pest professional to take care of the problem. Schedule an appointment with us online or give us a call at (515) 415-5550 today!