German cockroaches are the most common invading cockroach species out of the sixty or so species found in the United States. Like others, this species can cause significant health concerns and are known to be extremely difficult to eliminate. 
 
Cockroaches, in general, are prolific breeders that live in large groups. This is one reason why cockroach infestations can quickly become too overwhelming to handle alone. Please keep reading to find out what every Irvine, California resident needs to know about German cockroaches to keep homes and businesses safe.

Identifying German Cockroaches

German cockroaches are smaller than most other cockroach species, growing to about half an inch long. However, they share many similar traits with other species, such as their oval-shaped body, antennas, and six legs. They can be identified from other species by their coloration. Adults are light brown or tan with two black stripes. These stripes are horizontal and are located behind the head.

 

German cockroaches prefer to live in heated spaces, and more often than not, this means homes and businesses. They can usually be found in kitchens in secluded places. This includes, under the kitchen sink and cabinets and in the crevasse of appliances. They are attracted to heat, which makes under the refrigerator or dishwasher the perfect location for German cockroaches. Because they prefer kitchens, many dangerous implications come with a German cockroach infestation in an Irvine property.

Problems Caused By German Cockroaches

Cockroaches are not known for their cleanliness. The word cockroach is often associated with unpleasant and dirty. Because of this, there are many dangers and health concerns that come along with an infestation. 

  1. Food contamination is one of the worst effects of a German cockroach infestation. They can spread an assortment of pathogens such as salmonella, E. coli, typhoid fever, and gastroenteritis. This can happen if they interact with food directly or utensils and appliances.
  2. Allergies are another cause for concern when it comes to a German cockroach infestation. Their feces, which looks pepper-like, shed skins, and dead bodies can trigger allergies, eczema, and asthma attacks.
  3. German cockroaches can damage furniture and a property’s structure. There is not much of a limit on what cockroaches will eat. This includes furniture glue, wallpaper, and books.
    They are also known to produce a musty odor.
  4. Another problem caused by German cockroaches is the difficulty of getting rid of them. They are considered the worst species due to their reproduction rate, ability to contaminate any space they enter, and the problem of locating the source of the infestation. Another factor is their nocturnal nature, which makes it challenging to find where they are hiding.

German Cockroach Prevention

Because German cockroaches are so difficult to eliminate, prevention is key to keeping your Irvine Property business safe from this pest. Prevention tips include:

  • Empty trashcans frequently and keep bins clean.
  • Clean up crumbs and spilled food.
  • Sweep daily. 
  • Don’t leave dirty dishes and appliances out overnight.
  • Clean under large appliances frequently.
  • Fix any leaks such as underneath the kitchen sink.
  • Keep your garbage disposal clean.
  • Keep pet food and human food secure in air-tight containers.
  • Inspect the structure for cracks that can be used as entry points.

When it comes to the elimination of German cockroaches, it is best to contact professionals.

German Cockroach Elimination

If your Irvine, California home or business is infested with German cockroaches, contact the professionals at Malang Pest Control for assistance. At Malang Pest Control, we offer both residential and commercial services to quickly and discreetly rid your property of German Cockroaches.