What Are Roaches?

There are more than 4,500 species of cockroaches in the world, of which about 30 are known to live among humans. Some of the more commonly recognized types of roaches include:

• American cockroach
• German cockroach
• Asian cockroach
• Oriental cockroach
• and more

These pests are very adaptable, but prefer warm dark areas, mostly in or around buildings. If you have ever encountered a roach, you may have noticed that they do not like light, and will typically run away in search of a dark area.

Most cockroaches are about the size of an adult human thumbnail, but many can get much larger than that. Though most roaches get around by walking on their legs, some are able to fly, as well.

Roaches can live for about a year in most areas and climates. Many of the insects make a hissing or chirping noise.

Why Should I Be Concerned?

Cockroaches are dirty, disease-infested pests that pose serious health risks to humans and pets. These insects leave chemicals and feces behind wherever they go.

Unfortunately, your home — no matter how clean — creates an ideal living situation for roaches. They love to nest in dark, warm places and will eat human and pet food, even crumbs.

Roaches are able to enter your home through cracks and crevices, vents, and pipes. Sometimes, they even hitch a ride inside in a grocery bag, boxes, or even on clothing. Many of these pests can remain active year-round, even during a “cold snap.”

They reproduce quickly and can yield a staggering number of offspring. An unfortunate rule of thumb to follow is that if you can see one or two roaches, there are likely dozens, if not hundreds, of them, lurking in other areas of your home.

In fact, because roaches are nocturnal, if you’ve seen them during the day, it’s likely that they have been forced into the open due to overcrowding. This is a signal of what could be a severe infestation.

These pests frequently shed their skin, and the dust created by this process, as well as their dropping, can cause or aggravate allergies and create serious respiratory problems, particularly in children, pets, and the elderly.

What Can I Do to Prevent Future Incidents?

The harsh fact is that roaches have adapted over the years to most treatments that people think are “sure things,” or advice that has been handed down from friends and family members.

Roaches are very good at hiding and will avoid contact with you at all costs. Because they are able to flatten their bodies to fit into even the smallest openings in walls and more, it is highly unlikely you will be able to eradicate all of these pests from your residence using “home methods.”

In this case, it is best to contact a pest control professional who can help rid your home of roaches, and prevent possible future infestations. 

About Alliance Pest Control

Like you, we’ve lived, worked, and raised our families in the great state of New Jersey. We’re proud to have stayed family owned and operated for more than 30 years.

• Free inspections and estimates
• 24/7 emergency service
• Licensed, bonded, fully insured and background checked 

At Alliance, it’s never just business: it’s always personal.