Without cockroaches, our world would be a whole lot dirtier. If you didn’t know, out in nature, cockroaches are a huge help in breaking down dead and decaying organisms. Cockroaches are even bred in some parts of the world, by the billions, to process food waste. What is interesting is that the same thing that makes cockroaches beneficial also makes them a threat to people. How is this possible? We are about to show you. Here is why the cockroaches around your New York home are more dangerous than you might think.
Cockroaches In New York
There are four major species of cockroaches here in New York. To help you identify them, here is a brief description of each.
American Cockroaches:
- Color: Reddish-brown with a yellowish figure 8 pattern on their back
- Size: 1/1/4” to 2 ⅛” long
German Cockroaches:
- Color: Light brown to tan, with two parallel dark stripes located on their backs
- Size: ½” to ⅝” long
Oriental Cockroaches:
- Color: Shiny black
- Size: 1” long
Brown Banded Cockroaches:
- Color: Brown with banding running across their wings
- Size: 1/2 “ long
All cockroaches are oval in shape, have 6 legs, and are equipped with 2 antennae.
The Dangers Of Cockroaches
Cockroaches have been found to be able to spread 33 different kinds of bacteria, 7 human pathogens, and 6 parasites. Most of these problems are picked up in the dirty environments where cockroaches live and eat. When inside homes, cockroaches will crawl through sewer piping, rummage through trash, and then walk over countertops and left-out food. If you know anything about germs and bacteria, we don’t have to explain to you how this puts you and your family at risk.
If all of this wasn’t enough, cockroaches can also cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. How do they do this? As cockroaches mature, they shed their skins a number of times. As these skin casings break down, tiny particulates are released into the air. This can trigger allergies or asthma.
Finally, cockroaches can damage plants around your home. Although this is not harmful to you, it can be harmful to your wallet when you have to purchase new peace lilies for your couch side table.
How To Identify A Cockroach Problem
When cockroaches enter into homes, they do their best to stay out of sight, which they are fantastic at. What they are not good at is leaving no trace. After cockroaches have been in a home for a while, noticeable signs will begin to pop up. For one, you might start to notice what looks like coffee grounds in the backs of cabinets or around where you store your food. This is cockroach fecal matter. Another sign you might notice are streaks of grease along the crease between your floor and the wall. Finally, in time, you should start to notice cockroach carcasses beneath large appliances and inside cracks throughout your home.
What To Do About Cockroaches In Your Home
Whether you are certain or unsure that cockroaches have invaded your New York Home, you need the help of Pestmaster® Services - Central NY. Our team of qualified pest technicians has trained hard to know how to properly inspect and eliminate cockroaches. And if you are looking for a long term solution to keep cockroaches and other pests out year-round, we offer that as well.
Reach out to our team today to discuss your options or to schedule your New York home for a thorough inspection.