How Dangerous Are Roaches In Orange County?

Cockroaches are disgusting pests that nobody wants to find in their Orange County home or business, but they are an unfortunately common pest invader. And, while most people know that cockroaches are unsanitary, they are even more dangerous than many realize.

Because of the dangers of cockroaches, it’s important to know how to identify these pests and learn what you can do to protect your home or business from them. To start with, knowing how to tell cockroaches apart from other species goes a long way. The four most common species in the area are German cockroaches, American cockroaches, Oriental cockroaches, and brown-banded cockroaches.

Here is a brief guide to each variety:

• German cockroaches are the most prevalent species in the area. They grow to be about a half inch in  length and are a tan to brown color and have two black stripes that run parallel behind their heads.
• American cockroaches are the biggest of the species in Orange County and can get up to three inches in length. They are reddish-brown in color.
• Oriental cockroaches are often called black beetles because they have a jet black, beetle-like appearance. They are on the smaller side at around an inch long.
• Brown-banded cockroaches are also a smaller species and get their name because of the light brown bands they have running across their dark brown bodies.

Do Cockroaches Only Invade Dirty Homes?

One common question many property owners have about cockroaches is whether or not they prefer cluttered or dirty homes and businesses. The truth is that cockroaches are able to survive on almost nothing, so even places that are exceptionally clean can end up with a cockroach infestation.

However, dirty or cluttered homes can provide more of the things that cockroaches love. They prefer dark, cluttered areas where they can hide. And, they also thrive in areas with ample access to food sources so crumbs and garbage can attract them.

While keeping your home or business clean and free of clutter can help deter cockroaches, it isn’t a guarantee that you'll never have an infestation. Once cockroaches get inside they are difficult to remove because they can hide in so many areas and also reproduce quickly. If that weren't bad enough, they are resistant to many pesticides.

Just How Dangerous Are Cockroaches?

Cockroaches pose many health risks because they can spread so many pathogens and diseases. This is all because of the places that cockroaches like to hang out. They will live in sewage pipes, garbage dumps, bathrooms, and all kinds of places filled with refuse and decay.

They spread the bacteria from these places to your home or business. And, since cockroaches often live in kitchen areas, they often contaminate food and food preparation surfaces. Some of the diseases cockroaches transmit include salmonella, cholera, E. coli, and even the Bubonic plague. Plus, their discarded skins and carcasses can trigger asthma attacks and allergic reactions.

How Can You Remove These Dangerous Pests?

Because cockroaches are so invasive and sturdy, they are nearly impossible to remove using DIY methods once an infestation begins. It can also be potentially dangerous to use many cockroach-killing chemicals without the proper experience and tools.

The overall best way to eradicate cockroaches in a safe and effective manner is with help from the pros at Cura Termite & Pest Control. We will get rid of these dangerous pests in no time and keep them from coming back. Give us a call today to get started with our home pest control or commercial pest management services.