German roaches are a species of cockroaches, relatively large insects that live on forest floors and similar habitats throughout the world. There are more than 3,500 species of cockroaches, but only a few species commonly live and breed in our homes and work places:
- German Cockroach
- Brown Banded Cockroach
- Oriental Cockroach
- American Cockroach
Cockroaches infest the human dwellings of all ethnic groups and all economic classes. Roaches often invade non-infested residences by “hitchhiking” in egg cartons, soft drink cartons, bags of potatoes, beer cases, or even through used furniture or appliances. Once introduced into the home, these cockroaches generally start to populate the kitchen and bathroom.
Occurrence of Cockroaches in Buffalo & Western New York
The most common type of cockroach sharing human homes in Buffalo and the Western New York region is the German Cockroach. These insects grow to be about 5/8” long. They may be recognized by their light brown color, with two dark streaks on the thorax, although the female is darker in color. Both sexes have wings as long as their bodies and very long antennae.
Your Personal Roach Prevention Plan:
Homeowners can take several steps to reduce the potential for roach infestation:
- Cockroaches prefer to hide within five feet or less of their food and water source, so keep all potential food in sealed containers, do not leave pet food out overnight, and keep garbage in a sealed container and remove it before going to bed.
- Cockroaches will even eat paper and glue, so do not allow old papers to pile up.
- Keep your home clean and tidy. A clean home will not sustain as many cockroaches as a home that is cluttered and dirty because there is less food for the cockroaches to eat!
- Humidity and harborage areas are very important factors that promote cockroach infestations. Repair water leaks, insulate sweating pipes or other areas of condensation, and remove any standing water. Patch holes around pipes, and seal all cracks and spaces beneath baseboards with caulk.
- Prevent cockroach access into your home by using fly screening on windows and vents and applying weather stripping around doors.
Contact Amherst Exterminators for German roach extermination services in Buffalo and the surrounding Western New York area.
