Cockroaches
Cockroaches are the most common insect pests infesting homes, food service establishments and other structures in Virginia. Cockroaches are repulsive and objectionable to most people simply by their presence. They are also capable of transmitting disease organisms such as the bacteria which cause food poisoning.
Recently, cockroaches have been found to be an important source of allergy in people, second only to house dust. The German Cockroach has been known to transfer salmonella and e-coli bacteria. The Oriental Cockroach is frequently referred to as a Water Bug, and the Smoky Brown and the American Cockroach are also called Woods Roaches. The German and Brown Banded Cockroaches are the ones most frequently found infesting homes. There are many other Cockroaches but the ones shown below are the most common in this area.
Cockroaches typically become established in homes after being introduced in grocery bags, with laundry or, in some cases, wandering in from outdoors. Once cockroaches become established they are prolific breeders capable of producing several thousand offspring in a year.
Cockroaches prefer to live where there is food, warmth and moisture. Since cockroaches flourish where food and moisture are readily available, sanitation is an important step in prevention and control. Empty soft drink bottles, cardboard boxes and paper bags should not be allowed to accumulate. Food containers should be sealed and any crumbs or spillage cleaned up.
Common Types of Cockroaches:
German Cockroach
American Cockroach
Smoky Brown Cockroach
Oriental Cockroach
Brown Banded Cockroach
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