Cockroaches reign supreme in the pest world when it comes to the ability to sneak into your house, contaminate every surface, spread some of the world's deadliest diseases, and survive just about anything, including decapitation.
In Everett, cockroach infestations are becoming more common, and every year hundreds of families have to deal with trying to evict these disgusting creepy crawlers from their houses.
In the Pacific Northwest, with its mild climate and almost non-existent winters, you're likely to come across the following three cockroach species in Everett:
- American cockroaches are 1 1/4 to 2 1/8 long, with an oval reddish-brown body and a figure eight mark on the back of the head. These roaches have wings and can fly, allowing them to spread faster and further.
- German cockroaches are smaller than American roaches at 1/2 to 5/8 of an inch in length. They have an oval-shaped light brown body sporting two darker stripes running along their back.
- Brown-banded cockroaches are up to 1/2 an inch in length, with oval brown bodies. If you're in the mood to get close enough, you can differentiate them from other species by their long antennae and the two light brown bands on their bodies.
All cockroaches have evolved to be supreme yet disgusting survivors. They can run at speeds up to 12 feet a second, survive pressure over 900 times their body weight, regenerate limbs, and breathe through their whole body.
Some species, like the American cockroach, can reproduce through an asexual reproduction process, so even a single female in your house can become a colony quickly.
Let's take a closer look at the signs of a cockroach infestation to watch for, learn how to keep cockroaches out of your house, and, if they're already inside, how to find quality pest control in Everett.
Does Seeing One Roach In My Home Mean I Have An Infestation?
Cockroaches are nocturnal and great at staying out of sight. If you've found a cockroach in your house in the middle of the night, darting into a dark corner as you turn on the light, it's disgusting, but the roach might just be a single scout looking for food.
Seeing one during the day is much more concerning. That usually means the infestation is in full swing, and their hidden areas are becoming crowded, forcing the cockroaches to move further out.
Some of the other signs of cockroach infestation to watch for are:
- Droppings that look like coffee grounds.
- Egg capsules are found under furniture or in cabinetry.
- Shed skins.
- A musty odor.
If you see any of the above signs, the infestation is in its advanced stages and most likely requires a professional to clear your house of roaches.
Is It Dangerous To Have Roaches In My House?
Cockroach feces are a common trigger for asthma attacks and allergic reactions. While most cockroaches will not bite, they carry and spread many contagious diseases, such as cholera, typhoid fever, dysentery, giardia, etc. Any food left uncovered in their presence is likely to be contaminated by the pathogens and bacteria they carry on their bodies.
Why Do I Have Roaches In My House?
Cockroaches invade your house, looking for food and warm, humid, dark places. They are one of nature's least picky eaters, so they'll be just as happy to snack on an old book or a drop of spilled sugary coffee. The best way to avoid dealing with a roach infestation is to make your house as unappealing to them as possible.
- Clear any debris around the house or in the house itself.
- Seal cracks in the outside walls.
- Cover drains and vents with mesh screens.
- Make sure there are leaks or drips.
- Keep human and pet food in sealed containers.
With each female cockroach capable of laying over 200 eggs, even a single roach can be the start of a nightmarish infestation.
How Do I Get Rid Of Cockroaches In My House?
If you see signs of cockroach infestation in your Everett home, your best bet is to have a professional involved as soon as possible. At Guard Pest Control, we have the experience and know-how to create an eviction plan for your disgusting visitors that will clear every adult and egg out of your house.
We are a local, family-owned company and have protected Everette homeowners from invading pests since 2013.
Get in touch with us today to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Everett.