Signs to Look For in Checking Cockroaches

Jul 22
11:04

2012

Ma. Theresa Galan

Ma. Theresa Galan

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The more severe the infestation, the more cockroach sightings are likely during daylight hours. Another common sign is the presence of cockroach specks. These dark-colored specks are fecal pellets and regurgitated food, and look like grains of ground pepper.

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It is important to know about the signs that cockroaches have invaded. The most conclusive sign of a cockroach infestation is simply seeing them in the home,Signs to Look For in Checking Cockroaches Articles but because they are nocturnal insects they are not always easy to spot.

Given that cockroaches are nocturnal and normally stay hidden during daylight hours, knowing how to recognize other signs of cockroach infestation is essential.

Most species will tend to be found in greatest numbers in kitchen areas or where food is stored.

Cockroaches - signs to look for:
  • Live insects – cockroaches are nocturnal and hide during the day. You will most likely see them when turning on the light in the kitchen at night
  • Egg cases (oothecae) and cast skins – cockroaches shed their skin 5-8 times as they mature
  • Cockroach droppings – cockroaches leave a dust of black/dark brown droppings that are cylindrical & less than 2mm wide if water is scarce. They are found on horizontal surfaces & wall-floor junctions where cockroaches run
  • Smear marks - cockroaches produce these marks instead of droppings if water is readily available, they are brown in colour and irregular in shape
  • Odour – established cockroach infestations produce an unpleasant, musty smell & this is most noticeable close to the harbourage
  • Damage - cockroaches are omnivorous and will eat almost anything, food stuffs, organic goods including leather, books, paper, clothing and animal matter such as hamster or rabbit droppings - as well as their food. They will also consume packaging, plastics etc..
Preventing Cockroaches in the Home

Household cockroach infestations are ultimately caused by the availability of food and water sources in the home, as cockroaches would not otherwise be able to survive.

Sealing entry points can help prevent cockroaches from entering the home. Key areas of risk are gaps under doors or around pipes to the exterior, or neighbouring properties.

Also seal gaps where cockroaches can harbour - cockroaches are nocturnal and hide during the day in cracks and crevices in the walls, around skirting boards, under bathroom and kitchen sink cabinets, behind washers & dryers, under or behind other major appliances such as fridges and freezers or behind electrical sockets.

For more information on this topic, check out the links below:

cockroach control auckland, pest control auckland