In this article, we'll take a deep dive into American cockroaches in McKinney, including how to identify them, the problems they can cause, and the critical role that professional pest control in McKinney plays in protecting your home from roaches.
What Do American Cockroaches In McKinney Look Like?
You may be wondering, "How can I tell American cockroaches apart from the other types of cockroaches in McKinney?" Here are a few defining characteristics of the American cockroach:
- Adult American cockroaches are between 1 1/4 to 2 1/8 inches long, which is on the larger side for Texas cockroaches.
- American roaches are a reddish-brown color with a light brown or yellow band behind their head.
- These cockroaches are nocturnal and hide in cracks and crevices during the day.
- You can find American cockroaches in dark, damp areas like attics, basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms or areas with easy access to food sources like in kitchens, behind appliances, and under cabinets.
Why Are American Cockroaches Dangerous?
Most homeowners in McKinney can agree that they don't want roaches of any kind, including American cockroaches, in their home, but are there other reasons not to want roaches around besides their frightening appearance? Below are some reasons why the answer to this question is yes!
- Health Threats: Due to their unsanitary habits, cockroaches carry many different types of bacteria and pathogens on their bodies. As they move throughout your home, they'll spread this bacteria to the surfaces around your living space, including counters, food-preparation areas, dishes, cabinets, and even toothbrushes. The bacteria spread by American cockroaches can cause E. coli, salmonella, parasitic worms, and more.
- Allergies: Cockroach saliva, urine, and feces contain allergen proteins that can trigger allergies or asthma, especially in kids.
- Bites: Another common worry people have when it comes to cockroaches is that they will bite them. While American cockroaches can bite, sometimes leading to a secondary infection, these bites are quite rare.
Why Is It So Hard To Get Rid Of American Roaches In Homes?
American cockroaches are very hearty pests, so much so that they have even developed a resistance to certain insecticides. Due to their resilience, roaches are extremely difficult to get rid of on your own, and DIY or store-bought cockroach treatments are not a reliable option for getting rid of these pests.
While there isn't much you can do without help from a trained pest control professional once you have an active infestation, taking preventative measures against cockroaches can be very useful in keeping them out.
Here is a list of helpful American cockroach prevention tips that we recommend:
- Keep your kitchen, bathrooms, and storage areas clean to avoid attracting cockroaches.
- Avoid leaving food out overnight and keep up with dishes as much as possible; this removes potential food sources for scavenging roaches.
- Dispose of garbage regularly and store all trash in bins with tight sealing lids.
- Seal any cracks, crevices, gaps, or holes in the exterior of your home that could function as entry points for invading cockroaches.
The Secret To Effective American Cockroach Control
Big D Pest & Termite Services is your secret weapon when it comes to effective American cockroach control in McKinney and the surrounding area. To get started with effective home cockroach pest control in McKinney, give Big D Pest & Termite a call today and ask for a free quote.