No homeowner wants to have a cockroach problem. These nasty pests can cause real issues. Cockroaches travel through all types of filth and waste picking up traces of it on their legs and bodies. They can then transfer the bacteria they carry around to the surfaces of your house-like your kitchen counters. In addition, cockroaches can get into your food supply and contaminate it. They can spread disease to you and your family in this way. Cockroaches can also cause trouble for people with breathing problems. Their excrement and carcasses can pollute the air and be problematic for certain people. Cockroaches have the potential to cause you harm which makes it important to watch closely for signs that you might have an infestation.
Seeing a cockroach
The most obvious sign of a cockroach infestation is actually seeing a cockroach. There are many different types of cockroaches in the world. They can differ in size and coloring. But, all cockroaches can be identified by their general shape and body features. Their body features include long antennae, chewing mouthparts, six legs, and a shield-shaped structure on the top of their bodies. If you see one it is almost always an indication that an infestation is present. Cockroaches prefer to remain unseen-hiding in the dark and behind clutter. When you see one it is highly likely that it has friends nearby in the shadows. If you see one or two cockroaches it might be tempting to convince yourself that there is not a bigger issue-especially if you caught and killed the cockroaches you encountered. Don’t be fooled, one cockroach sighting is almost always the clearest sign that you have a cockroach problem.
Finding evidence of cockroaches
Cockroaches leave behind evidence of their presence-even if you do not actually see one scurrying around. Seeing small droppings in drawers or the backs of cabinets can indicate a cockroach infestation. It can be difficult to differentiate between roach droppings and other types of pest droppings. You can take a little time and learn how to identify the different types of pest droppings or you can simply call in help when you find evidence of any type of pest. Roach carcasses are another sign that you may have an issue. A dead roach is definitely the only type you want to see in your house. But, roach carcasses in your house can be an indication that there is an active infestation.
Seeing a cockroach or discovering signs of their presence should prompt you to call a pest control professional. The threat that these pests pose to your health makes quick action essential. Do not risk having your food supply and surfaces in your home contaminated because of a cockroach problem.
