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german cockroach on a kitchen counter

What are German cockroaches?

German cockroaches are a common urban pest found in Worcester, Providence, Shrewsbury, and throughout Rhode Island and New England. Not only are they very adaptable to different living situations, this type of roach is the most common cockroach species to be found in houses, apartments, restaurants and hotels.

What do they look like?

Adults are ½ an inch to 5/8 of an inch in length. They are a light tan to brown color, with identifying dark parallel lines running from the back of their heads to their wings. They have fully developed wings but do not fly.

Do German cockroaches bite?

They are capable of biting but rarely if ever do. If bitten it should not present a problem unless the bite gets infected.

Are German cockroaches dangerous?

While they do not bite or sting they do feed and live in areas that harbor dangerous bacteria, such as sewers, garbage disposals, and dumpsters. Unfortunately, they introduce bacteria into residential and commercial environments by carrying it on their body. Food contamination can occur when this happens and areas, where food is prepared, may also be contaminated. This can lead to serious health risks. In fact, vomiting, fever, diarrhea and the transmission of Salmonella can be associated with a roach problem. The allergens from their excrement and shed skin can also trigger severe asthma attacks in some individuals.

What are the signs of a German cockroach infestation?

Laying low during the day in cracks and crevices in walls and throughout a home or business, German cockroaches become more active at night when they come out of hiding forage for food and water as well as mate. If there is a heavy population you may see them moving about during the day if disturbed. You may also find their feces in drawers and cabinets, especially in kitchen areas, their excrement resembling coffee grounds. They also secrete an odor that may cause a musty smell in the area they are infesting.

Why do I have a German cockroach problem?

Like other types of roaches in New England, German cockroaches prefer a moist warm environment; their main food source is generally garbage that is found in and around homes and businesses. German cockroaches can also be introduced into your home from products that are bought from stores that are already infested.

How do I get rid of German cockroaches?

German cockroaches can be difficult to combat using DIY pest control methods. In part because these products may only target the cockroaches you see and not the many more you are not seeing. Contacting Big Blue Bug Solutions for cockroach control is the ideal solution and will fully resolve your infestation. In business for over 75 years, we’ve been providing home pest control in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and parts of Connecticut, as well as commercial pest control to our New England service area and, are ready to help you get rid of cockroaches!

German cockroach prevention tips from Big Blue Bug Solutions

German cockroaches can enter your home or business in boxes, bags and products that are already infested, so inspecting these items before bringing them inside may help to prevent an infestation. Since German cockroaches mainly feed off of garbage and other food items that they come across while foraging, making sure that your garbage is routinely removed and keep in sealed containers away from your home can help to prevent them. Also making sure that spills are immediately cleaned up, dirty dishes are not left in the sink overnight and food is stored up off of counters will help to eliminate their food source.

Helpful articles about German cockroaches

Problems Cockroaches Cause In Rhode Island Homes

The New Englander's Extreme Guide To The German Cockroach

How To Get German Cockroaches Out Of Your Portland Home

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