What is an Oriental Cockroach?
There are thousands of species of cockroaches; however, Oriental cockroaches, also known as water bugs, are one of the most commonly found in your home. These cockroaches range anywhere from about 1-inch to 1 1/4-inch long with deep brown to almost black shiny skin, and they are mainly outdoor scavengers that live in sewers and feed on moist, decomposing natural matter, such as decaying plant and animal material. However, they sometimes travel through sewer pipes and enter your home through the drains, in most cases, in search of water, which is why they are often found near unprotected piping or plumbing, as well as sinks and toilets. Because they thrive in dark, cool places with temperatures between 68 and 84 degrees, they are also commonly found in basements and crawl spaces.
During the warmer seasons, they can also be found below porch platforms, in leaf piles, gardens, mulch, and even in firewood outside your home.
Are Oriental Cockroaches Dangerous?
It is uncommon for cockroaches to bite humans; however, in cases of large infestations or when food is scarce; they have been known to bite.
The biggest threat that cockroaches pose to your home is the germs and allergens they carry on their legs from sewers and other bacteria-ridden matter, such as garbage and decaying food, that can contaminate many surfaces inside your home, including food, dishes, utensils, and counter-tops. In fact, cockroaches have been shown to spread E. Coli, salmonella, as well as some viruses that can cause your family to become ill.
Can Oriental Cockroaches Fly?
Some cockroach species have wings and can fly just a few feet, such as the American cockroach (another common species of cockroach found in homes). However, even though Oriental cockroaches also have wings, they can not fly.
Preventing Oriental Cockroaches From Invading Your Property
As with any house pests, cockroaches often gain entry to your property through gaps and cracks in and around your home, including under the doors. They can also enter through unprotected drains and piping. The first step to preventing an Oriental cockroach invasion is to seal up any gaps or openings quickly to decrease the chance of infestation.
It is also important to keep your home clean and clutter-free. Cockroaches are also attracted to the smell of decaying garbage. Be sure any trash cans are kept closed and secure. You should also place screens or caps over any open drains to prevent cockroaches from entering your home through the piping.
Meanwhile on the exterior, it is important to prevent water leaks. Seal all holes, and keep any trash and decaying organic matter from around your home.
Successfully Treating Your Cockroach Problem
Oriental cockroaches can be harder to treat than other cockroach species. An insecticide can be applied around the doors and baseboards to create a barrier to deter them from entering. Insecticides can also be used on contact to kill adult cockroaches, however eggs will still remain. Therefore, if you have spotted any cockroaches in or around your property, it is important to seek professional help.
The technician will closely inspect both the interior as well as the exterior of your property for any possible access points and signs of activity, which is the only way to successfully treat the root of the problem. It can be difficult to identify on your own if you don’t know what to look for. The technician will then create a customized plan, which may include using bait traps or granular insecticides, to effectively rid your property of cockroaches. It is also recommend to conduct periodic inspections and treatments to prevent your cockroach problem from reoccurring.