Oriental cockroaches are a shiny black to a dark reddish-brown color. As adults, the male and female cockroaches are quite different in appearance. They are both fairly large in size, with females measuring in at about 1 ¼ inches and males at only 1 inch. The smaller males have shortened, three-quarter-length wings and as a result, the last few abdominal segments of their bodies are exposed. The larger female oriental roaches have no wings. Instead, they have large wing pads that shelter the first few segments of their bodies. Neither males nor females can fly. They are frequently found in the Northern regions of the U.S.
Egg cases range in size from 8 to 10 mm in length, and will commonly appear during an infestation. The egg cases are usually dark brown or reddish in color. Each egg case can hold about 16 eggs. Oriental cockroaches secrete chemicals to communicate with each other. These chemicals have a notorious musty odor.
Oriental cockroaches are primarily an outdoor species, often found in sewers and under debris, leaves, stones and firewood. They can also be found living in the space beneath porches. While their natural habitat is outdoors, oriental cockroaches tend to invade homes during the summer. They will enter structures through gaps or cracks in door thresholds, under sliding glass doors, along utility pipes and through floor drains. When indoors, oriental cockroaches find a place to hide in basements and crawl spaces, as they prefer damp, cool locations. These cockroaches will also be seen crawling around toilets, sinks, pipes and service ducts.
Oriental cockroaches feed on all kinds of food, but they especially like decaying organic matter, starchy foods and garbage. Though these cockroaches have been noted to survive for up to a month without food, they cannot live for more than two weeks without water. Because they are heavily dependent on water, they tend to gather in large numbers near water sources.
The best way to prevent Oriental cockroaches is to practice good sanitation. Make sure to vacuum often and keep any areas where food is stored or prepared spotless. Use a dehumidifier to prevent moisture buildup in damp areas. Inspect the exterior of the home for possible entry points, and seal up with a silicone-based caulk. Pay close attention to cracks and gaps around doors, windows, pipes and utility lines. Since oriental cockroaches are very dependent on water, eliminate sources of standing water and divert water away from the home’s foundation with properly functioning downspouts and gutters.
If a cockroach infestation is suspected, contact Richland Pest & Bee Control for advice on Brown-banded cockroach control and elimination. Our pest professionals will be able to recommend a customized treatment plan to get rid of the cockroaches and help prevent a future problem.
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