German Cockroaches

What do German cockroaches look like?   

Adult German cockroaches are light brown or tan with two black stripes that look like an equal sign running parallel from the backs of their heads to their wings. They also have two small appendages called cerci at the end of their abdomens. The entire length of a German roach from head to cerci is between ½ to ⅝ inches long. Nymphs of this species start out black or dark reddish brown with a spot of tan. As they grow, the black coloration becomes prominent on the sides, and the tan runs down the center. The black coloration is obscured after the roach grows wings, except on the back near its head.

Are German cockroaches nocturnal?

Nocturnal pests, such as German cockroaches, prefer nighttime activity but can be active during the day if necessary. They are usually dormant during the day due to human activity and vibrations, becoming active at night to search for food. German cockroaches have the ability to navigate in the dark using their senses, including their antennae for feeling their surroundings and cerci for detecting air disturbances.

Are German cockroaches dangerous?

The unfortunate reality is that German cockroaches pose a threat to human health due to their behavior patterns. They are attracted to unsanitary spaces and feed on decaying organic matter. In some cases, exposure to cockroaches may lead to stomach illness, but there is also a risk of more serious illnesses such as salmonellosis, listeriosis, and gastroenteritis.

Cockroach infestations in homes have been linked to an increase in hospitalizations for asthma-related symptoms, posing a risk to those with asthma. These vile pests can also exacerbate allergies.

What do German cockroaches eat?

German cockroaches are omnivorous, which means they will eat almost anything they can find, even if humans wouldn’t consider it edible. In addition to common kitchen staples and pet food, these roaches will eat:

• Glue
• Wallpaper
• Grease
• Books
• Cardboard boxes
• Clothing
• Dead skin
• Fecal matter

It is hard to starve German roaches because they find abundant food resources in homes and businesses. 

How long can German cockroaches live without food?

A German cockroach can survive for about a month without food, making it nearly impossible to starve these insects. However, they can only last about a week without water.

What attracts German cockroaches?

The main reason German cockroaches are attracted to living in Louisiana homes is moisture. As mentioned, they need water to survive. While they can get some moisture from the food they consume, they will actively seek out areas in homes where there are water droplets (or some kind of moisture present), such as bathroom sinks, showers, tubs, and laundry rooms. Kitchen sinks, leaky pipes, and other moisture issues will also attract these pests.

German cockroaches also seek warm shelter in tight spaces like behind cabinets, wall voids, and under appliances.

How can I tell if I have a German roach infestation?

Typically, cockroaches remain hidden, but signs of their presence include fecal matter, shed skins, and smear marks near their hiding spots, such as under kitchen and bathroom sinks. As the population increases, you may start seeing young cockroaches crawling around. If you turn on a light during the night in an infested area, you may catch a glimpse of one or more cockroaches.

How do I get rid of German cockroaches?

At Anti-Pest, we provide solutions for German cockroaches and other types of roaches that infest homes and businesses in our area. If you have discovered a cockroach problem in your home, we highly recommend signing up for our Pest Plan. This ongoing home pest control plan covers 20+ common house-infesting pests, including cockroaches, and is a year-round service designed to keep pests out no matter the season! We also offer commercial pest control services for businesses dealing with roaches and other pests.

How can I prevent German cockroaches?

To make your property less appealing to German cockroaches, consider doing the following:

• Reducing moisture issues around your home.
• Sealing gaps, cracks, and openings on the outside of your house.
• Practicing good housekeeping and sanitation. 
• Removing clutter in your garage, closets, and other storage areas.

 If you have questions, reach out to us for assistance. We're here to help.