Cockroach infestations are a common problem in South Florida houses. Roaches are highly capable of adapting to various environments and living spaces.
Most cockroaches share some general features. They typically have oval-shaped and flattened bodies that allow them to squeeze into tight holes. Their size can also vary, usually from half an inch to two inches in length. Their habitats are commonly found in dark and dirty areas as well as places near food and water sources.
Why is it important to identify the type of cockroach in your home? Each species has unique behaviors and preferences. For instance, some are more commonly found in kitchens, while others prefer damp outdoor areas, such as the trash or garden. This is why it’s important to identify which type of cockroaches are living in your home to then determine a proper course. In many cases, once you have noticed an infestation in your home, it would be wise to contact a local licensed pest company such as Wise House Pest Control.
The warm climate of South Florida makes it a perfect place for different types of cockroach species. This allows them to thrive and infest a lot of homes and properties across the region. Below are some of the most common types of cockroach species you can find whether you live in West Palm Beach, Port St. Lucie or Boynton Beach.
American cockroach (aka Palmetto Bug) is one of the most common cockroach species you can find in homes across South Florida. They are also one of the largest species that can grow between 1.5 to 2 inches. They are reddish-brown in color and usually live in warm and damp environments like basements or drains.
The German cockroach is a light-brown species smaller than the American cockroach. Measuring about half an inch, it often infests kitchens and bathrooms, where it thrives near water sources.
The Australian cockroach often gets mistaken for the American cockroach because of its similar appearance. However, it grows slightly smaller and has distinctive yellow markings on its head. You’ll usually find this species outdoors, but it will invade homes if it discovers openings around the property.
The brown-banded cockroach stands out with its distinctive light-brown bands across a dark brown body. Measuring about half an inch, it grows smaller than most other cockroach species. This pest prefers warm, dry areas and often hides in attics, on top of cabinets, and inside crawl spaces.
The Smoky Brown Cockroach is a close relative to the American cockroach. The difference is that Smoky Brown roaches have a dark brown color and can only grow about an inch long. They are excellent fliers and are often found in attics and tight spaces under floorings and roofs.
The Florida Woods Cockroach (aka “stink roach”) is larger and darker and also emits a foul odor when disturbed. They are less common indoors but can be found in damp outdoor areas.
The Asian cockroach is closely similar in appearance to the German cockroach. They are also good fliers and are attracted to lights. They are usually found outdoors but will also go inside homes for food and shelter.
Oriental cockroaches are often called water bugs because they thrive in wet and damp environments. Their appearance is dark and glossy and they grow about an inch long. They are commonly found under bathroom and kitchen sinks.
Here’s how you can protect your South Florida home from these unwanted pests.
Maintain Cleanliness: Make sure to clean your home regularly. Cockroaches are attracted to food leftovers, so be sure to keep a close eye on your kitchen and sinks.
Seal Entry Points: Check your home for cracks and crevices in windows and doors. Also, seal any openings and cracks in your wall to prevent cockroaches from entering.
Manage Waste Properly: Dispose of garbage regularly and use bins with tight-fitting lids. Cockroaches are not picky eaters and will invade your trash bins if they see an opportunity.
Eliminate Water Sources: Check and fix leaky faucets and pipes. Just like humans, cockroaches also need water to survive.
Store Food Properly: Keep food in sealed containers. Cockroaches have no reason to stay in your home if they don’t have any food sources in the first place
For cockroach infestations, seeking professional pest control services is strongly advised. Professional pest control companies can provide effective solutions for dealing with cockroach problems. They have the expertise, necessary equipment and traps to effectively eradicate cockroaches.
