Five Early Warning Signs Of Cockroaches In Your Reno Home

cockroaches in house eating food off floor

Cockroaches eating food off the floor

Cockroaches are one of the nastiest and most unsanitary pests in Reno, Nevada, and they have a reputation that precedes them. These pests are associated with filth and germs, but the truth is that they are even more dangerous than many people realize because of their ability to spread pathogens.

Because of the risks of cockroaches, it’s a good idea to know how to identify cockroaches and their infestations as quickly as possible. But, while you might see the roach itself with time, there are other signs of a cockroach problem that you're likely to notice first if you know what to look for.

In this guide, you’ll learn common signs of cockroaches as well as what you should do if you suspect you have an infestation.

What Do Cockroaches Look Like?

To start with, cockroaches themselves can be identified by their long, oval-shaped bodies, six legs, pair of antennae, and wings that are flat on their backs. The German cockroach is the most common species and is a light tan color with two black stripes behind its head while the American cockroach is the largest and a reddish-brown color and can reach up to three inches long when fully grown.

Five Signs Of Cockroaches

Other than seeing the roach itself, the following five signs are the most prevalent indicators of an infestation, and you might notice these things when the infestation is just getting started.

  • Small droppings that look similar to pepper or coffee grounds
  • Brown smear marks that are showing up on walls, floors, cabinets, or appliances
  • A weird, musty odor that you haven’t noticed before
  • Cockroach shed skins that have been discarded and are usually found near walls and baseboards
  • Discarded egg capsules that are white to dark brown depending on how old they are

Are Cockroaches Really That Dangerous?

While some pests in Reno are mostly just a nuisance, cockroaches are not. They tend to spend time in many gross areas like bathrooms, trash, sewage systems, and other filthy places. Then, they spread these pathogens around to homes. And, as they prefer humid areas with access to food, they often contaminate food items and kitchen surfaces.

Cockroaches can cause allergic reactions and asthma attacks, but, worst of all, they are known to spread many illnesses including salmonellosis, E. coli infection, and gastroenteritis.

The other huge concern with cockroaches is that they are quite invasive and difficult to remove. They can reproduce quickly which means their numbers can grow out of control in no time, and they are resistant to many pesticides making it nearly impossible to remove the entire infestation using DIY methods.

What’s The Best Way To Remove Cockroaches?

Because cockroaches can be dangerous to you and your family, it’s essential to remove them at the first sign of an infestation. But, since they are so hard to completely eradicate and also to prevent, the best way to protect your property is with help from Pestmaster® Services.

We provide comprehensive cockroach removal through our residential pest control plans, and we will also make sure that these dangerous pests don’t return. With over 40+ years of experience, you can trust our skills and knowledge.

To find out more or request a free quote, contact us today at (800) 525-8866.