Cockroaches

Unfortunately, cockroaches are common in our area. Cockroaches are common pests in Baltimore. Roughly 4,000 cockroach species live on the planet but you’re not going to encounter all of them. Only 30 species will enter and live in residential dwellings. In Baltimore, you’re only going to encounter five species. With so many cockroach species in the world, it can be difficult to know which one has invaded your home. Sadly, this creates a problem because you have to identify the species before you can fix the problem. Remember that the species are different in many ways. The appearance, habits, and other things vary from one species to another. You won’t be able to tackle the problem until you’ve found out which species you have.

It is often best to hire a professional exterminator who has years of experience dealing with cockroaches. Below, you’ll learn a lot more about the common cockroaches found in Baltimore, Maryland.

Which Cockroach Species Are Found In Baltimore?

Again, you have to identify the cockroach species before you can find a solution. There are numerous species in our area but you’re most likely going to encounter American cockroaches or German cockroaches. Continue reading to learn more about these species and more.

German Cockroaches

Baltimore is home to German cockroaches. The species are one of the most common in our area. When they reach adulthood, they range in size from half an inch to a little over half an inch. they’re tan or light brown and have a pair of racing stripes on their head. Unfortunately, German cockroaches breed prolifically like other cockroaches. An adult female can easily produce 5 egg capsules during her life. Each capsule will contain up to 40 eggs. Therefore, a pregnant female can easily create a full-blown infestation. German cockroaches prefer hiding under hot appliances such as ovens and refrigerators. German cockroaches have fully developed wings but they do not fly.

American Cockroaches

Baltimore residents also have to worry about American cockroaches because they are frequently encountered in our area. These cockroaches are much larger than other cockroaches since some of them can reach two inches in length. They’re reddish-brown. However, their plate has a dark mark surrounded by a lighter color. The presence of American cockroaches is frightening because the American cockroach is one of the largest cockroaches in our area. Plus, they’re one of the longest-living cockroaches. It can take them up to 2 years to fully mature. Once they mature, these cockroaches can live another year or longer. These cockroaches generally do not infest structures quickly.

It takes them a while to achieve this goal. Large groups of American cockroaches can be found in steam tunnels and sewer systems in the Northern United States. Once locals have discovered lots of American cockroaches on their properties, it is pertinent to check for busted sewer pipes or dried plumbing traps. Something has gone wrong.

Besides these cockroaches, you may encounter others. For instance, you could run into brown-banded cockroaches, Pennsylvania wood cockroaches, and oriental cockroaches.

Pennsylvania Wood Cockroaches

Pennsylvania wood cockroaches are typically found in Pennsylvania and surrounding states. Therefore, you’re going to encounter them in our area. Although they belong to the same species, male and female members look remarkably different. Adult male Pennsylvania wood cockroaches are larger than females and reach up to an inch in length. They have full wings. Females are between half an inch to three-quarters of an inch. Their wings are shorter. Although they’re found in our area, these cockroaches are rarely pests and do not reproduce inside structures.

They can be found in numbers in certain places. Male Pennsylvania wood cockroaches will fly toward lights. These cockroaches are also attracted to wood siding, wood shingles, woodpiles, and blocked gutters.

Spotted Mediterranean Cockroaches

Our city is home to Spotted Mediterranean cockroaches. Since they’re only a third of an inch, they’re smaller than others. They’re light but have dark specks on their wings. Spotted Mediterranean cockroaches are native to Europe but have been in the United States since the mid-1900s. They’ve quickly spread across the country so they can be found in most states. In Maryland, these cockroaches can sometimes be found outside in large numbers. They stay outside and hang out near foliage. These cockroaches will sometimes enter residences from the outside, but they do not reproduce inside. Since they’re attracted to lights, they’re likely going to fly to your property at night.

Oriental Cockroaches

Oriental cockroaches are moderate in size since they can reach lengths over an inch. In terms of color, they’re either black or dark brown. While female Oriental cockroaches never develop wings, males have wings that cover three-quarters of their bodies. These cockroaches are a lot like American cockroaches since both cockroaches like infesting older structures and sewer systems. One thing that sets Oriental cockroaches apart is the fact that they can handle the cold weather better. As a result, they’re often found hanging out around trashcans outside. They will feed on trash, feces, and decaying materials.

Smokey Brown Cockroaches

These cockroaches are indeed found in Baltimore but they’re not as common as other cockroaches. On average, they can grow over an inch and a half. They have a deep, shiny appearance and look a lot like Oriental and American cockroaches. Smokey brown cockroaches are commonly found in the southern states but they do not travel north much. When they do, they’re going to travel in shipping packages and containers. Remember that they’re different than oriental cockroaches because they have full wings. Plus, they’re one color so that sets them apart from American cockroaches.

Surinam Cockroaches

Surinam cockroaches are one of the most unique cockroaches in our area. They’re three-quarters of an inch and have light tan wings. They have a dark place on the back of their heads. These cockroaches prefer living in warm locations but can travel north from time to time. When they do, you’ll find these cockroaches in your greenhouse. The thing that sets them apart from other cockroaches is the fact that there are no male cockroaches. All Surinam cockroaches are female. These cockroaches hold eggs unit they’ve hatched. Then, they’ll give live birth to new cockroaches.

Brown-Banded Cockroaches

Brown-banded cockroaches are only half an inch in length. They’re tan or brown but are always light in color. They’re small so they’re often mistaken for German cockroaches. You can quickly identify the species by look at the back of the cockroach’s head. If it has racing stripes, it is a German cockroach. If it doesn’t, you’re likely dealing with a brown-banded cockroach. Although they can still invade residences, they are uncommon.

Reasons For Cockroaches In Your Home

There are numerous cockroach species and each one is different in numerous ways. Before you can identify the cause, you have to know which species you’re dealing with. Some cockroaches will enter from the outside but others enter through sewers. You can also bring them in when they hide on infested objects. If you spot a cockroach on your property, it may not be a problem. However, it could be. When you find many cockroaches on your property or in your home, it is time to get assistance. Do not delay because they can breed and reproduce prolifically.

Dangers Linked To Cockroach Invasions

Ultimately, cockroaches are incredibly dangerous. When compared to other household pests in Baltimore, cockroaches rank near the top of the list. Living with cockroaches puts you at a high risk of developing a serious illness. As the infestation grows, the risks involved will climb higher. Just remember that cockroaches are not physically dangerous to humans or pets. They’re not going to bite you or inject you with them. They won’t attack your pets either. Some people keep them as pets and others feed cockroaches to their reptiles. Nevertheless, cockroaches are dangerous.

They often cause salmonella outbreaks. Furthermore, they can cause a person’s asthma symptoms to worsen. It doesn’t help that these pests thrive in feces and garbage. When they enter your home, they may contaminate your food products and food-preparation surfaces with bacteria. If this happens, they could cause you to experience dysentery, food poisoning, diarrhea, and other illnesses.

Finding A Solution To Your Cockroach Infestation

You cannot delay getting rid of the cockroaches in your dwelling. Although it depends on the cockroach species, some of them enter residences that are unkempt. Therefore, you need to go above and beyond to ensure that your home remains clean and tidy. Be sure to clean your home thoroughly each day. After lunch or dinner, take your trash outside and immediately clean your dishes. Try to get rid of all food crumbs and leftovers so these pests cannot find food in your home. Nevertheless, dealing with a cockroach invasion won’t be easy. They’re elusive and difficult to handle. Many people experiment with do-it-yourself methods to no avail. Although these products can help, there are problems involved.

They’re potentially dangerous and they’re not as effective as professional techniques. We’ve trained our technicians to ensure they can use the latest techniques and tools. Therefore, we’re confident that they can wipe out the infestation in your home safely and conveniently. Sadly, we usually have to use pesticides to eliminate cockroach invasions. You’re likely concerned about us using pesticides in your home but you shouldn’t be. We’re going to do everything we can to keep you safe. We’ll use these products safely and precisely to ensure that everything will be fine.

When Can Your Expert Arrive?

Our technicians are ready and willing to help you fix this problem. Contact our Baltimore office and someone will call you within 24 to 48 hours.

Our Cockroach Treatments Are Safe

When you’re ready to tackle this problem, contact us to learn more about the steps we take to protect you. We strive to fix cockroach problems using safe, eco-friendly methods. However, there is always a chance that we’ll need to use pesticides or insecticides. When we have to use these products, we’re going to pick safe products. We would never use dangerous chemicals in our clients’ homes. All of the products we use have been carefully tested by us and the Environmental Protection Agency. Since they’re registered with the EPA, you can rest assured knowing these products are safe.

The risks are minimal and we’re going to take steps to reduce them further. If you have any questions about our procedure and how we protect you, contact our office. We’ll be thrilled to any your question.

Preventing Cockroaches From Entering Your Home

Cockroaches are difficult to eliminate and keep out. You can minimize the risks by ensuring that your home remains dry and clean. Be sure to clean your home thoroughly several times each week. Do this and you might be able to keep them out. Just remember to call us when you find cockroaches in your home.

If you have any other pest control issues please check out other services.