In the Southwestern part of the United States, including California, Turkestan cockroaches, which are mostly rusty red in color, have become among one of the most common types of pests since being transported here in the 1970’s, which reports show most likely came from military gear traveling from either Afghanistan or the Middle East. Since then, even more sightings of these cockroaches have been reported in various other parts of the U.S., including the Northeast and most recently the Southeast.
This once rare breed of cockroaches are typically found outside in leaf piles, potted plants, compost piles, raised slabs of concrete, water meters, electrical boxes, and underground sewage and water systems where they sometimes eventually make their way into your property through the drain. Once inside, they can typically be found in damp areas of the building, such as crawl spaces and other underground structures.
What Are Turkestan Cockroaches?
Turkestan cockroaches, also known as the red runner cockroach and the rusty red cockroach, are about 1.2-inch long roaches that look differently, depending on whether it is a male or a female.
Female Turkestan cockroaches are generally deep brown to black in color with rather wide bodies and stubby round wings outlined in pale bands of color; however, they can not fly. Their bodies and behind their heads also contain off-white markings. The males, on the other hand, are often red to rusty orange with long yellow-colored wings, which enable them to fly, and the same markings as females on the edge of their bodies. However, their bodies are smaller and thinner than the females.
These native North African to Central Asian species of cockroaches, like other cockroaches, primarily dwell outdoors where they feed on just about anything they can find. However, during the summer months, it is not uncommon to find them indoors where they most likely flew in through an open door or window. They can also make their way indoors through other exterior openings, such as gaps under the doors.
Turkestan cockroaches tend to have a short development period as compared to other cockroaches, and they also produce more eggs – about 15 per sac, which researchers suggest is the reason they have become more prevalent in some areas.
Do Turkestan Cockroaches Pose Any Risks?
Like, other outdoor pests, Turkestan cockroaches crawl through bacteria-ridden matter, which means when they enter your property, there is always a risk that this bacteria can be transferred from their legs to food as well as other surfaces, which can make you ill. In fact, research shows that Turkestan cockroaches are known to spread more than 30 kinds of bacteria.
Treating Turkestan Cockroaches
Turkestan cockroaches are most active after dark, during which time, you may spot them flying around lights, which is also one of the most common signs of infestation.
Cockroaches can generally be treated with repeated insecticide treatments; however, research shows that after some time the cockroaches may become more resistant to the treatments due to the enzymes contained in their fat bodies, which helps detoxify certain chemicals. Therefore, for a more effective treatment, you may consider calling a professional to help.
They are equipped with the latest treatments, including residual insecticides, traps, and bait, for effectively treating cockroaches and can also implement a successful Integrated Pest Management plan to help prevent a cockroach invasion. You will also need to seal any gaps, cracks, drains, and other openings to prevent cockroaches from getting in. It is also important to remove any water, food, and shelter sources around your property to help discourage them from nesting on the grounds.