How Do I Tell Where Ants Are Coming From?
How Do You Get Rid Of Fleas In Your Home?
How Do You Know If You Have A Cockroach Infestation?
Nothing is more worrying than realising that you have a pest problem, especially if that pest has the reputation of a cockroach. There may be more if you are unfortunate enough to spot a cockroach on your property.
Cockroaches like to be warm and have a generous source of food and water, making our homes and businesses ideal places for them.
The two most common types of cockroaches in the UK are German and Oriental cockroaches. Oriental cockroaches seek damp and dark places such as basements, whilst Oriental cockroaches prefer humid environments such as bathrooms and kitchens.
All cockroaches are fantastic at hiding in the shadows, and they are also nocturnal. So although you could have a cockroach infestation, this is why you may have only seen the odd one.
Sightings of Cockroaches
The most obvious sign of a cockroach infestation is seeing the insects themselves. Cockroaches are nocturnal, so you're more likely to spot them at night. If you're seeing them during the day, it's likely that the population has grown significantly and they're being forced out of their hiding places due to overcrowding.
Cockroach Droppings
Cockroach droppings are a tell-tale sign of an infestation. These droppings are small and dark, resembling ground coffee or black pepper. The quantity of droppings can give you an indication of the level of infestation, with larger populations leaving more waste.
Unpleasant Odours
A strong, musty smell can be a sign of a large cockroach infestation. This odour is produced by pheromones released by cockroaches and can become more intense as the population grows. It's often one of the first signs that people notice.
Egg Casings
Cockroaches lay eggs in casings known as oothecae. These are typically oval-shaped and can contain numerous eggs. Finding these casings in your property is a clear indication that cockroaches are breeding and the infestation is likely to increase rapidly.
Damage to Food and Packaging
Cockroaches are scavengers and will eat almost anything. If you notice unexplained damage to food packaging or foodstuffs, especially in areas like kitchens or pantries, it might be due to cockroaches.
Shed Skin
As cockroaches grow, they shed their skin multiple times. Finding these skins, which look like smaller, translucent versions of the insects, is a sign of an active infestation.
Unusual Sounds
At night, in a quiet environment, you might hear cockroaches moving around. The sounds of their scuttling and rustling in the dark can be quite noticeable in severe infestations.
Allergic Reactions or Asthma Flare-Ups
For some people, cockroaches can trigger allergies or asthma. If you or your family members are experiencing unexplained allergic reactions or an increase in asthma symptoms, it could be due to the presence of cockroaches.
Treatment For Cockroaches
Some cockroach infestations can be treated with insecticides. Still, it is helpful to note that they can lay their eggs in hard-to-reach areas, such as gaps and cracks, which can often make insecticides ineffective.
You should also know that insecticides can harm humans and household pets. Therefore, it is always advised to read the product labels and follow the safety guidelines.
If you have a problem with cockroaches, it is recommended that you contact a professional, trained pest controller, like Wallace Pest Control, who will carry out the safest and most effective treatment methods.