Cockroach Identification & Treatment
Cockroaches are social insects that commonly infest homes and commercial businesses. They have hard, long, oval-shaped bodies and long antennae. Their food preferences, habitat preferences and behaviors vary between species so pest identification is crucial when it comes to cockroach control. The cockroaches that commonly infest homes in Wichita, Kansas and surrounding areas are listed below.
German Cockroach
The distinct pattern for identification of a German Cockroach is the two dark stripes down the thorax (back). Also, these cockroaches are often found in kitchens and bathrooms, specifically within cabinets or cracks or crevices. German cockroaches are easily introduced into homes through grocery bags, cardboard boxes and drink cartons. Food sources within homes include the following; kitchen items, pet food, toothpaste, soap and glue.
American Cockroach
While German Cockroaches are more commonly found in residential settings, the American Cockroach is often associated with sewers and commercial facilities. They prefer to inhabit warm, damp locations. These cockroaches are also known to be strong fliers and easily migrate from building to building.
Oriental Cockroach
The Oriental Cockroach is heavily associated with moisture in a home. They are often found in crawl spaces, basements, water-meter boxes, drains and sewer-ejector pits. The female Oriental Cockroach is wingless and both genders are very dark in color, almost black.
You may encounter other cockroaches occasionally, such as Wood Roaches, that will not establish an infestation in your home. They are referred to as “occasional invaders”. Patton Termite & Pest Control treats for cockroaches with routine pest control service.