Oriental cockroaches in Connecticut live in damp, dank areas, thus earning them their nickname "waterbugs." These cockroaches are comfortable anywhere with an abundant supply of water - a pond, damp basement, underneath a kitchen sink, or swimming pool.
Oriental cockroaches are shiny black or dark reddish-brown in color. They reach about 1 inch long. Though flightless, males have short wings, and females have no wings at all. Females are also slightly larger than males.
During mating season, these aquatic insects search for bodies of water. While they tend to gravitate toward ponds, they may also fall into pools. Given their affinity for light, your pool lights could lure them.
Oriental Cockroaches consume frogs, fish, and tadpoles. If your property contains an abundance of these organisms, you may be the victim of an oriental cockroach infestation. In which case, you'll want to know the dangers associated with oriental cockroaches. Like other cockroach species, they transmit dangerous pathogens that can lead to a host of intestinal diseases. They can also trigger allergies and exacerbate symptoms associated with asthma. All in all, you want them off your Connecticut property.
The Identifiable Traits Of An Oriental Cockroach
Oriental Cockroaches are unique for a variety of reasons. These insects are also known as "electric light bugs," owing to their proclivity to fly towards light sources. If you want to deter oriental cockroaches, don't leave your porch lights on for extended periods of time.
Unlike most living organisms, male oriental cockroaches play an essential role in an offspring's life. Males carry the eggs, guard them, and subsequently rear their offspring. Thus, controlling the males is critical to slowing the growth of an infestation.
Their appearance is also unique. Oriental cockroaches utilize clawed front feet, a distinguishable trait, to capture prey. They undoubtedly live up to one epithet, giant. Oriental cockroaches are most commonly referred to as "giant waterbugs." Other bugs such as the water boatmen or the water scorpion thrive in water. However, these insects do not possess the impressive size of the oriental cockroach, though the water scorpion comes close.
The Signs Of An Oriental Cockroach Infestation
Before you can move ahead with prevention and control, you must first ascertain whether oriental cockroaches have invaded your home. If you're experiencing cockroach infestation, you should notice the following signs:
- You may witness the presence of actual oriental cockroaches. All cockroaches gravitate toward homes with moisture. You may see them in wet basement areas, around moist gutters, or around pools.
- You could see egg capsules. These eggs are anywhere from 8 to 10 mm in length with dark brown coloring.
- You will also likely smell the unpleasant, musky odor throughout your home.
Preventing An Oriental Cockroach Infestation In Your Connecticut Home
With your newfound knowledge of oriental cockroaches, you can now prevent future infestations. Here are a few tips to keep oriental cockroaches out:
- Set traps. Chemical roach-bait traps will suffice. Place them near possible entry points, such as windows and doors.
- Mow your lawn regularly. Oriental cockroaches can inhabit high grass. From there, they can infiltrate your home.
- As is the case with most pests, you should maintain a clean home. Cockroaches thrive in messy environments where they can easily conceal themselves. Declutter and clean your home. Vacuum your carpet, and clean off the bits of food on your countertop.
- Reduce the moisture in your home. You can do this by purchasing a dehumidifier or by fixing leaks.
- You should also pay close attention to your trash. Leaky trash bags are a roach's dream. Do not empty liquid into your trash can. Check your trash can regularly for liquid.
If You Live In Connecticut, Call Big Blue Bug Solutions!
If you're dealing with an oriental cockroach infestation, we encourage you to seek professional assistance. Contact us at Big Blue Bug Solutions to control oriental cockroaches. Alongside pest control, we'll offer continuous preventative treatment to ensure that oriental cockroaches stay out. Give Big Blue Bug Solutions a call to learn more about our cockroach control solutions!