American Cockroaches

Close up of American Cockroach on concrete.

Color: Reddish brown with a pale brown figure eight band on the back of their heads.

Characteristics: American roaches are oval shaped. Adults are fully winged.

Size: Adult roaches are approximately 1 1/2 inches long.

Potentially Dangerous: Yes

What is an American cockroach?

The American cockroach is noted as being the largest species that commonly enters into homes. Adults grow to be 2 inches long, are winged and will fly. American cockroaches are reddish-brown in color with a distinctive yellow figure 8 pattern on the back of their head.

Why do I have them?

American cockroaches are most often found outdoors living underneath of logs, mulch, and rocks. They come inside homes and other buildings such as hospitals, food processing plants, and restaurants, through drains and pipes while searching for food, water and a warm environment.

Are they dangerous?

Yes, American cockroaches are extremely dangerous when they invade your home. That’s because they’ve likely been crawling through sewers, garbage, and excrement before arriving at your house. Once inside the bacteria on their bodies and legs is transferred to food and other surfaces. American roaches may transmit Salmonella and many other types of bacteria that can cause vomiting, fever, and diarrhea. They also are known to carry at least six different kinds of parasitic worms. The shed skins and excrement that they leave behind can trigger severe asthma attacks, especially in children.

How do I get rid of American cockroaches?

Getting rid of American cockroaches can be extremely difficult because they breed very quickly, and there are many more hiding throughout your home then you ever get to see. The best way to safely and quickly get rid of an infestation is to contact a pest control professional. At Wil-Kil Pest Control we offer effective pest services that will get rid of your cockroach problem.

Can I do it myself?

When it comes to roaches, don’t go it alone. This pest is too complex and often the sheer volume of cockroaches in the house will put you at a disadvantage. Wil-Kil Pest Control will not only get rid of the roaches you see lurking about, we’ll find out how they’re getting in and make it so they can’t anymore.

How soon can you get here?

Our customers are our top priority. Your Wil-Kil technician is 100% committed to helping you as soon as possible.

How can I prevent this in the future?

American cockroaches can be difficult to prevent but there are some things that you can do around your home to help keep them away. Prevention tips for American cockroaches include:

  • Storing trash in sealed containers away from the exterior of your home
  • Sealing spaces around pipes or drains that enter in your house
  • Be sure to clean up spills and crumbs immediately.

If you’re concerned about cockroaches in your home or business, contact Wil-Kil Pest Control as soon as possible to rid yourself and your home of these invading pests.

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