Pest control in Austin is often focused on cockroaches—and with good reason. Austin has long been referred to as the cockroach capital of the United States due to our ridiculously high cockroach population. Entomologists tend to agree that the state of Texas has the largest concentration of roaches of any state. Our huge cockroach population causes problems for home and business owners alike, with the German cockroach as the most problematic species.
Read on to learn how to identify this troublesome roach species and how Aries Pest Control can remedy an existing infestation on your property.
How To Identify German Cockroaches
German cockroaches have several key characteristics. Color is a big one. Most other pest roaches in our area are dark, such as American and oriental cockroaches. However, German cockroaches are tan to light brown. They also have two parallel stripes running from the back of their heads to the base of their wings.
German cockroaches also tend to be smaller than American and oriental cockroaches. However, their smaller size doesn’t translate to the scope of the issues they cause. German roaches are one of the worst species you can get in your Austin home, and they’re the primary reason you should know how to keep cockroaches away.
The Diseases German Cockroaches Are Known To Spread
One of the main reasons you should know how to keep cockroaches awayis because they spread disease. Gastroenteritis, salmonella, and listeria are among the many diseases German cockroaches transmit, and they spread these infections in several ways. They might smear germs on your surfaces while crawling over them or even leave droppings in your food stores. All in all, pretty much anything roaches touch becomes contaminated, making it crucial you take steps to avoid letting these pests into your home.
Factors That Attract German Cockroaches To Your Property
If you’re seeing signs of cockroach infestation around your home, there are likely factors present attracting roaches to your property. Cockroaches aren’t picky eaters, even eating wax and paper. Moreover, they certainly aren’t selective about where they seek shelter, with any warm, moist area serving their needs just fine. Since virtually every house contains moisture, food, and dark corners to hide in, German roaches can and will infest just about anywhere. This makes it difficult to pinpoint any singular thing as the root cause of an infestation.
The good news is there are a few things you can do to make your home less attractive to them:
- Cover your trash with tight-fitting lids to reduce smells that roaches could find appealing.
- Store all pantry foods in airtight containers to mask their smells too.
- Seal cracks and holes in your home’s exterior to make it harder for roaches to enter.
- Use dehumidifiers in humid areas to reduce moisture around your home.
The Most Effective Way To Get Rid Of German Cockroaches
Seeing any signs of cockroach infestation means you must take action. Many homeowners attempt to use OTC cockroach control products to try and deal with their infestation on their own. However, these products are rarely effective because roaches are durable and often resistant to store-bought sprays and baits. Not only that, but the chemicals in these cockroach control products can sometimes be toxic to people and pets. You’ll need to up the ante.
Here at Aries Pest Control, we offer the best pest control in Austin. Our cockroach control methods are effective and will get rid of your entire cockroach infestation for good. Furthermore, our reliable treatments are safe and won't harm your family or pets. Reach out and schedule your service today!