Date Posted: October 31, 2018
Category: Cockroaches
Cockroaches, unlike some Maine pests, can continue to be a problem in Southern Maine homes throughout the fall and winter. Roaches are particularly a problem in kitchens, restaurants, hospitals, warehouses, and anywhere food is handled. Roaches are known carriers of human pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning and diarrhea. They can also destroy paper products and fabrics due to a secreted odorous substance, which can cause staining. In addition, their shed exoskeletons, dried carcasses, saliva, and feces can be an allergen to people who are susceptible to allergies and asthma, especially young children and the elderly.
In the wild, cockroaches are happy to eat plants, insects, rotten organic debris, feces, dead trees, and dead carcasses, but they will eat just about anything. They are mostly drawn to foods that are sweet, starchy, greasy, as well as meats and cheeses. The more rotten the better. Roaches tend to frequent areas where there is an overpowering odor, such as compost piles, garbage cans, and sewers. Other items roaches are attracted to include wallpaper, soaps, glue, toothpaste, cardboard, and book bindings.
As you can see, cockroaches travel through some disgusting places and, consequently, pose a health risk to humans and pets. They can also cause damage to belongings if they are not eradicated.
As a South Portland homeowner you can look for some of these specific signs of a cockroach infestation because you may never actually see these nocturnal pests:
- Cockroach egg casings are brown in color, oval-shaped, and can contain 10-20 eggs. You may find them inside cabinets, under appliances, behind furniture, or under bookcases.
- Dead cockroaches can be found in similar areas where you would find egg casings.
- Cockroach feces look like ground coffee and, if there is a lot of this around, you can be sure that you have a large infestation.
- Cockroaches will leave a musty, oily strong odor if they are invading your home in large numbers.
If you see or smell any of these signs, you will need to call a professional pest control service as soon as possible to avoid consequential health risks and damage. Homeowners in South Portland can call on Big Blue Bug Solutions to treat all cockroach and pest problems, and help you keep cockroaches out for good.
Give us a call today to learn more about our residential pest control options.
