Have you ever seen a cockroach and wondered what kind it was? Cockroaches There are many different types of cockroaches, but two of the most common in the United States are the American roach and the German roach. Although they may look similar, these two types of cockroaches are very different. Keep reading to learn more about the differences between American roaches and German roaches!
What are the differences between American and German roaches in terms of appearance, size, and lifespan?
American and German roaches may look similar at first glance, but there are several distinct differences between these two species that set them apart. When it comes to appearance, the American roach is a deep red-brown color, whereas German roaches have tan bands going down their back.
Size-wise, the American cockroach is larger than its German counterpart; reaching up to 2 inches when fully grown. In terms of life cycles, the lifespan of an American roach can last up to one year whereas the life expectancy of a German cockroach is much shorter at around 100 days. Additionally, American roaches have wings on their backs which makes them capable of flight - something that the German version isn't able to do. With all those differences in mind, it's clear that these two species should not be confused with each other!
How did these two species of cockroaches come to be in America, and what are their preferred habitats here?
The two species of cockroaches in America have had a particularly interesting journey to arrive on our shores, thought to have hitchhiked on ships and traveled to Caribbean countries like Cuba and Puerto Rico before making it here. Now they prefer crawlspaces, dark areas, laundry rooms or any other warm area with plenty of food and water where they can reproduce rapidly.
What do American and German roaches eat, and how do they get into our homes in the first place?
American roaches and German roaches are both scavengers that love food sources like starches, sugar, oils, and some protein. They also seek out water sources like drain traps, leaking or overflowing pipes/tubs, pet food in dishes, or any food crumbs left behind after humans eat. In terms of getting into our homes in the first place, they can enter through cracks in the walls and doors, open windows, rotten wood around foundations and openings where utilities pass through walls. These little critters have adapted to live almost anywhere so it is important to do an inspection of your home and patch up any possible access points.
Are there any effective methods for getting rid of these pests once they've taken up residence in your home?
Getting rid of pests can be a real challenge once they've invaded your home. The most effective ways are boric acid and diatomaceous earth. Both boric acid and diatomaceous earth are natural, non-toxic solutions that target the wildest type of critters and help prevent them from returning. Boric acid acts as an insecticide that dries out the waxy protective shell of pests while diatomaceous earth works by slicing and dicing pests from the inside out. Together, these two natural solutions can help you get rid of even the toughest pest problem – quickly and naturally!
Why should you be concerned about either type of roach?
The German cockroach is smaller in size and can easily hide in dark and small spaces, making them harder to find whereas the American cockroach is larger but can still get into your home through tiny cracks or gaps. While both are concerning for their filthy habits and invasiveness, the German cockroach has been found to be more dangerous because of its ability to spread a range of diseases through its contamination of food items since they feed on anything they can find. So if you think your home may be vulnerable to either one of these pests, it's important to take preventive measures right away such as eliminating any standing water or filling in any cracks or crevices around your home. Allowing either type of cockroach inside your home could lead to a range of health issues as well as damage to property.
If you think you have cockroaches in your home, don't hesitate to contact Atlanta Outsourced Pest Control at 678-948-6073. We will be able to identify the type of cockroach infesting your home and determine the best course of treatment. Roaches are not only unsightly, but they can also carry diseases that pose a serious threat to human health. Don't wait until it's too late - call us today!