Call Today (410) 312-7233

COCKROACH IDENTIFICATION & PREVENTION

(Blattodea)
calendar

FREE QUOTE

Request Your Free, No Obligation Quote
Google logo

Average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 354 reviews. 4.8   

What are cockroaches?

Cockroaches are resilient pests that live near people and are difficult to control. Cockroaches are scavengers and will feed on almost any food and non-food item we provide them with. They are prolific breeders and their presence can quickly take over any home or business here in our service area of Central Maryland. Cockroaches have flattened, oval-shaped bodies with six legs covered in spines and long antennae that are usually the same length as their bodies.
a cockroach crawling on a piece of bread inside of a home

Some of the most common species of cockroaches found living throughout our area of Greater Baltimore include the following:

American cockroaches
American cockroaches are the largest species of household-infesting cockroaches living in the United States. Adults have the potential to grow up to 1-1/2 inches in length and have fully developed wings that are capable of flight. American cockroaches have mahogany-colored bodies with a unique yellow figure-8 marking located behind their heads.

Brown-banded cockroaches
Brown-banded cockroaches have dark bodies and, as their name suggests, two lighter brown-colored bands running across their bodies. Adults grow to about 1/2 an inch in length. Males have fully developed wings and can fly, while females have underdeveloped wings and cannot fly. These cockroaches prefer living in dry, warm locations.

German cockroaches
German cockroaches have light brown to tan bodies with two black stripes running horizontally down behind their heads. Their wings are fully developed but they are not capable of flying; instead, they move from place to place very quickly by running. German roaches prefer to live indoors and have the potential to invade any home or business.

Oriental cockroaches
Oriental cockroaches have dark, smooth bodies. Males have wings that are fully developed, but neither males or females are capable of flying. These cockroaches prefer to live in extremely damp, dark areas and are often called “water bugs” because of their high moisture needs.

Smoky brown cockroaches
Smoky brown cockroaches are closely related to the American cockroach and look very similar. The body of the smoky brown cockroach is a dark, shiny mahogany color. Their wings extend past the tip of their abdomens and they can fly short distances. Smoky brown cockroaches are attracted to the exterior of homes by outdoor lighting.

Are cockroaches dangerous?

Cockroaches are responsible for carrying and transmitting a variety of bacteria and infectious agents. Their feces and shed skins can cause allergic reactions and trigger asthma attacks in children and other people with weakened immune systems. Aside from the various health risks they create, cockroaches also contaminate food sources and stain clothing, floors, rugs, and the surfaces of your home or business with their feces. They will also quickly turn your property into a place you would rather not be.

Why do I have a cockroach problem?

Cockroaches typically find their way into homes while foraging for food or after being accidentally introduced from hiding in or on another object. Cockroaches that are living on your property often find their way inside through cracks in the foundation and exterior walls, spaces around utility entrances, spaces underneath doors, or through vents. They are also commonly introduced into homes by homeowners. Cockroaches can be brought into a home unknowingly in used appliances or furniture, packages, and potted plants.

Where will I find cockroaches?

Wherever there are people, food, and shelter, there is the potential to find cockroaches. Depending on their exact species, cockroaches often live around dumpsters or trash cans, behind tree bark, in compost piles, in gardens, in sewers, and under mulch. Cockroaches that have found their way inside of a home will nest in a variety of places. They can be found around pipes and drains, behind appliances, in drawers, and under cabinets. They also tend to take up residence in basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.

How do I get rid of cockroaches?

To get rid of cockroaches, we recommend contacting a pest control company that has the experience, knowledge, and tools required to completely eliminate the infestation. Phenom Pest Protection is a local, family-owned business committed to offering phenomenal service and results. We customize our treatment process to ensure your property’s specific needs are met. To learn more about our effective cockroach control services offered to properties throughout Greater Baltimore, call Phenom Pest Protection today!

How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?

In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, protect your property from pests with the following prevention tips:

Exterior tips

  • Seal gaps or cracks in the foundation and exterior walls of your home or business.

  • Make sure weather stripping is placed around all exterior windows and doors.

  • Place door sweeps on exterior doors and tight-fitting covers over vents.

  • Replace any torn window or door screens.

  • Leave a barrier between any mulch and your property’s foundation.

  • Cut overgrown vegetation back away from the exterior of your home or business.

  • Replace white outdoor light bulbs with yellow bulbs or LED bulbs that are less attractive to insects

 

Interior tips

  • Check any packages and potted plants before bringing them in from the outside.

  • Store food in air-tight containers or inside the refrigerator.

  • Fix any leaky pipes and fixtures.

  • Wipe out excess water from sinks and tubs.

  • Regularly vacuum your home or business and wipe down counters and tables.

  • Make sure outdoor trash cans and compost bins have locking lids and are stored away from the exterior of your property 

Got my first service done today and was happy to see that not only did I get a great deal, but they did everything they told me they were going to do, and they were right on time!! Heather did my service and she did a great job! Highly recommend this company if you like working with organized and reliable people who have a vision for growing a company through customer service! “PHENOMenal!!”

a happy customer in his home in fort worth texas

Matt B.

Phenom Pest Protection received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 354 reviews.

LATEST BLOGS

Stay informed about pests and pest related issues in your area!
What Animals Eat Mice? Here’s Everything You Need To Know

What Animals Eat Mice? Here’s Everything You Need To Know

Mice are at the bottom of the food chain and serve as a crucial source of food for various wild animals, big and small. These predators in the animal kingdom help keep rodent numbers in control by consuming them as either their primary meal or part of their overall...

How Long Do Cockroaches Live? A Guide for Maryland Homeowners

How Long Do Cockroaches Live? A Guide for Maryland Homeowners

Cockroaches are common pests invading homes throughout the U.S. While roaches do pose an immediate threat by biting or stinging,  These pests thrive in filthy environments and are carriers of various bacteria. As they are typically attracted to food sources in the...

How To Kill Cockroaches in Your Baltimore Home

How To Kill Cockroaches in Your Baltimore Home

Cockroaches are common pests invading Baltimore. Encountering these unpleasant little creatures across your kitchen or living space is a sight bound to make most people uncomfortable. But it doesn’t just end there. These pests adapt well to filthy environments, which...

REQUEST YOUR FREE QUOTE

Are you an existing customer?