Are you finding cockroaches in your South Portland home or business? It isn't surprising. The deep cold in Maine isn't enough to keep roaches away. And once inside, the nice warm conditions will help those cockroaches multiply, especially where there is humidity, such as in industrial kitchens. But cockroaches don't need ideal conditions to thrive, they are notorious for surviving just about anywhere they can find food and water. So what types of roaches might you expect to see in South Portland, Maine? German cockroaches, American cockroaches, and the brown-banded cockroach.
German Cockroaches
The German cockroach (Blattella germanica) is the most common type of cockroach in the United States. Measuring ½ to ¾ of an inch in length, the German cockroach is an almond shaped insect with 2 antennae and 6 legs that have spines on them. But these are small and not as noticeable as the spines on an American cockroach. A German cockroach's most notable feature is 2 longitudinal black stripes on the thoracic shield that covers their heads. The favorite foods of a German cockroach are sweet things. Spilled juice on the floor, leftover pastries, and even toothpaste residue are all delicacies for these roaches. But they are also happy to eat other types of starches such as what is found in wallpaper paste or book bindings. Because of the preferred warmth and moisture, German cockroaches thrive in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, but they can be found in any dark area of a home or business.
American Cockroaches
The American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) is the largest of the cockroaches found in Maine, ranging from 1 ⅜ of an inch to 2 ⅛ of an inch. They have slimy shells that are oval in shape, are reddish brown, and have 2 antennae and 6 legs that have very noticeable thorn-like spines that they use for feeling surfaces. Near the head of an American cockroach there is a yellowish-orange, sideways figure 8 that leads to the top of their backs. These roaches will eat almost anything from dead bugs to vegetables and also prefer places that are warm and dark.
Brown-Banded Cockroach
The brown-banded cockroach (Supella longipalpa) is the smallest roach found in Maine, measuring in at a mere ⅝ of an inch in length. These roaches are tan to light brown and have 2 light yellow bands across their wings and abdomen. They live and breed exclusively indoors and tend to dwell in high locations such as on ceilings and behind picture frames. Unlike the other Maine cockroaches, brown-banded roaches prefer warm, dry havens, and are sometimes found inside appliances or electric motor housings. Like the American cockroach, the brown-banded cockroach will eat just about anything.
One thing all these roaches have in common is that they are known spreaders of disease. If you are having issues with cockroaches in your home or business, the pest professionals here at Big Blue Bug Solutions can take care of them for you. Contact us today to schedule your FREE inspection.
