German cockroaches are small insects, but they can cause significant problems when they infest homes. Widely regarded as one of the worst structure-infesting insects in the world, it’s essential to know how to promptly identify these pests in your home to address an infestation.
Adult German cockroaches measure between ½ and ⅝ of an inch in length. They have a shiny tan coloration due to their wings, which lay flat on their backs and extend slightly past their abdomens. Their heads feature two long antennae, while their rear ends have two small appendages called cerci that point outward at an angle. One distinguishing feature is the pair of black lines running vertically on their backs above the wings. In the United States, the only other cockroach with a similar appearance is the Asian cockroach, which is often mistaken for German cockroaches. However, they should not be confused with Oriental cockroaches, which are entirely black and have either incomplete wings or small wing pads.
These insects can live anywhere inside a structure but have some preferences. Here are a few places you’ll likely see them:
German cockroaches are prone to getting into unsanitary places, which makes them a vector for germs that cause food poisoning and other illnesses. Their presence in a home is also a significant issue for those who have asthma and allergies, particularly children, the elderly, and those with compromised health.
German cockroaches typically enter homes through several common routes, usually hitching a ride on items or sneaking through tiny openings. Here's how they typically make their way indoors:
German roaches are attracted to homes that provide food, water, and shelter. Opportunistic feeders, German cockroaches are lured in by crumbs, grease, food residue, and even toothpaste, soap scum, and hair. Moisture is another attractant, particularly leaky pipes, sinks, bathtubs, and areas with poor ventilation. Warm, dark, and hidden areas like behind appliances, inside walls, under sinks, and near water heaters will also attract these pests.
Each female German cockroach can produce 4 to 8 egg cases in a lifetime. One egg case can have 30 to 40 eggs. It takes about 3 to 4 months for a German cockroach to develop from egg to reproductive adult. Every 3 to 4 months, the population of roaches increases significantly because each female produces up to 40 new roaches.
If you’ve noticed cockroach activity in or around your home, professional treatment is highly recommended. At got bugs? Termite & Pest Solutions, our local pest control specialists provide home pest control services in Atlanta that eliminate and prevent German cockroaches and other house-infesting pests. Contact us today to find out how our team can help.
To keep German cockroaches out of your home, we suggest implementing the following prevention tips:
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