Cockroaches are a pest that most people never want to encounter. They can be extremely dangerous to have around the home as they can spread multiple illnesses, including salmonella and dysentery. They are also some of the most difficult pests in Portland to remove.
In this guide, you’ll learn more about cockroaches in Portland, including how to spot signs of their presence in your home.
What Do Cockroaches Look Like?
While there are other signs of cockroach activity you’re likely to see before the actual roaches, it’s still useful to know what cockroaches look like. Cockroaches are oval-shaped and between half an inch to a little over two inches long, depending on the species. They have six legs and wings that lay flat on their bodies, but they rarely fly.
There are a few different cockroach species in the area, but the most prevalent is the German cockroach. This species is a brown color with two black stripes that run parallel behind their heads. While they are the most common, they are also the smallest in the area. The reddish-brown American cockroach is also common. They can get up to three inches long, making them the largest species in the country. Lastly, the Oriental cockroach is not as prevalent but can occasionally show up. They are a dark black color and look similar to large beetles giving them the nickname “water bugs.”
Signs Of Cockroaches
Other than seeing the actual roaches, there are other signs of cockroaches to be on the lookout for. These indicators often show up earlier on when the infestation has just begun, so knowing what they are can help you identify and correct cockroach infestations before they get out of hand.
Here is what to watch for:
- Brown smear marks in irregular shapes around walls, appliances, and other surfaces
- Dark brown spherical droppings that can look like flecks of dark dust
- Egg capsules or shed skins around baseboards and appliances
- A musty odor that wasn’t there before
Why Cockroaches Removal Needs To Be A Top Priority
Along with carrying many pathogens, cockroaches can also trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks. Of course, not all cockroach infestations are going to make you ill, but there is always a risk, especially because these pests are known to spread at least 35 different diseases.
Then, there’s the fact that cockroaches are nearly impossible to remove using DIY methods. They reproduce quickly and have the ability to hide in many out-of-sight areas, such as tiny holes in the walls or inside of appliances. They are good at hiding, and they can quickly spread throughout an entire building.
For these reasons, the most effective way to deal with cockroaches is through ongoing residential pest control services.
Call The Professionals For Cockroach Removal
If you’ve noticed any signs of cockroaches around your home, don’t waste time and effort trying to eradicate them on your own. Cockroach control is tricky unless you have the tools and training to remove these difficult pests.
Instead, give the residential pest control professionals at Big Blue Bug Solutions a call to learn more about our prevention and removal services. We have over 80 years of experience dealing with dangerous roaches in Portland and the surrounding areas. You can trust that we will eradicate any cockroach infestation and keep them from coming back in the future.
Just give us a call to learn more or to request a quote or an inspection.