Get rid of cockroaches - Falls Creek Animal & Pest Control

Cockroaches

American cockroaches generally live in moist areas, but can survive in dry areas if they have access to

water. They prefer warm temperatures around 84 degrees Fahrenheit and do not tolerate cold

temperatures. In residential areas, these cockroaches live in basements and sewers, and may move

outdoors into yards during warm weather. These cockroaches are common in basements, crawl spaces,

cracks and crevices of porches, foundations, and walkways adjacent to buildings. They feed on a wide

variety of plant and animal material.

Females produce egg cases and carry them protruding from the tip of the abdomen for about two days. Egg cases are then generally placed on a surface in a hidden location. Egg cases are 3/8 inch long, brown, and purse shaped. Immature cockroaches emerge from egg cases in 6 to 8 weeks and require 6 to 12 months to mature. Adult cockroaches can live up to one year, during which females produce an average of 150 young.

Due to the large size and slow development of American cockroaches, large infestations of these insects are not common within houses. However, during certain times of the year, these cockroaches may move inside a house from outside sources. For example, in winter these cockroaches may move indoors, seeking warmer temperatures and food. Cockroaches may enter houses via sewer connections, under doors, around utility pipes, air ducts, or other openings in the foundation. Exclusion is one way to control this inward movement of cockroaches. Place fine mesh screening over crawl space vents and basement floor drains. Seal exterior doors with weather stripping. Fill gaps in walls and floors where pipes enter using steel wool and/or caulking compounds. Cockroach populations in basements can be reduced by decreasing dampness and applying insecticides in cracks and crevices where there is evidence of cockroach activity (presence of egg cases, dead cockroaches, brown fecal smears).

Cockroach populations around the perimeter of houses are more difficult to control. First, limit the availability of food and water. Place garbage in trash cans, not plastic bags (plastic bags rip easily). Divert water from gutters at least 3 feet away from the foundation. Secondly, reduce hiding places for the cockroaches. Do not stack firewood or debris next to the foundation. Make a visual inspection about one to two hours after sunset to locate cracks and crevices in the building from which cockroaches are emerging. Spray these areas with insecticide and seal the cracks and crevices if possible.