Oriental cockroaches are oval-shaped roaches that grow to about an inch in length. They have shiny black or dark reddish-brown bodies, six spiny legs, and a pair of long, thin antennae. They are sometimes called water bugs. Male Oriental cockroaches have partially formed wings, while females do not have wings. Neither males nor females can fly.
Like other common cockroach species, Oriental cockroaches can be a health hazard. They live in areas that breed a variety of dangerous pathogens, picking up those pathogens on their legs and bodies and spreading them to the surfaces they touch. In this way, Oriental cockroaches can spread diseases that include E. coli and salmonellosis.
The shed skins, saliva, waste products, and dead bodies of Oriental cockroaches can also trigger or exacerbate allergies and asthma symptoms in some people, especially children.
Oriental cockroaches are not known for damaging property, at least not in significant ways. Unlike termites, they do not eat through wood or damage the structural components of homes. However, an Oriental cockroach infestation can result in personal property damage. These pests feed on various items, including paper and fabric, so you might discover minor damage to books, clothing, or curtains if they get into your house.
Oriental cockroaches are primarily an outdoor species. They prefer cool, damp environments under debris, such as leaf piles, rocks, and firewood.
Oriental cockroaches often seek indoor shelter from the heat during the summer. Once inside, they usually nest in crawl spaces, basements, or other dark, damp, and cool areas.
Water is one of the main attractants of Oriental cockroaches. They not only need water to survive, but they also prefer damp and humid areas. If your property has a lot of moisture, it will attract Oriental cockroaches.
A steady food supply also attracts Oriental cockroaches. They eat various food and non-food items but prefer decaying matter, garbage, and starchy foods, usually available in and around homes.
Identifying an Oriental cockroach infestation is not always easy, especially since these pests are nocturnal and not typically active during the day. When trying to identify an Oriental cockroach infestation, look for the following:
We do not recommend DIY cockroach control as these pests are difficult to eliminate. They are resilient insects resistant to many treatments, especially over-the-counter products and other do-it-yourself methods. Furthermore, they can harm people if misused.
The best way to eradicate Oriental cockroaches (and other roaches) is to contact Anti-Pesto. Our locally owned and family-operated pest control company offers effective pest control services in the Tampa Bay Metro. We are ready to help you eliminate cockroaches and other pest from your home or business!
Preventing Oriental cockroaches from getting into your house or around your property is preferable to dealing with an infestation after it occurs. Some of the most effective Oriental cockroach prevention tips include:
Reducing moisture in your house and around your property by
Implementing good sanitation practices by
Making it difficult to get into your house by
For the best prevention, implement these suggestions along with a routine pest control plan. Contact Anti-Pesto for Oriental cockroach control today.
From the first contact call the staff was very professional, courteous and informative. We discussed the issues and set a plan with an appointment within a couple days. Shane, our technician, was very prompt and courteous. Very informative during the inspection process and strategically put a deterrent plan in place. I would highly recommend Anti-Pesto Bug Killers.
Jim J.
Largo, FL
We had a wasp infestation in our backyard shed. Anti-Pesto responded immediately and were out to our place within about two hours and took care of everything thoroughly. They will even follow-up again within two weeks to be sure that the problem does not recur. They are awesome!
Daniel Z.
Largo, FL
Amazing quality work. I’ve had a few pest control companies spray and ants would still enter our home and act as roommates. Sam Hurtado is our technician and he answers everything with knowledge and always brings quality work. Even if there was recent pest work they always arrange if I have issues. Thank you!!
Trish N.
Tampa, FL
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