American cockroaches, also known as palmetto bugs in the South, are fairly large insects about two inches in length. Unlike the name suggests, they actually originate from Africa, which explains their preference of warmer climates.
In Maryland, American cockroaches live outdoors in warm, humid areas, such as under mulch or in wood piles.
As their outdoor food (leaves, fungi, algae, and other organic matter) becomes scarce, they may invade our homes and commercial properties. Baltimore restaurants and other food processing and disposal areas offer plenty of food and shelter for these cockroaches to thrive and reproduce into plague-like populations.
These reddish brown insects are known to carry and spread at least 30 different kinds of bacteria, infecting food and food preparation areas. They often travel through sewers and drains where they may pick up parasitic worms.
Here is how you know if there are American cockroaches in your home:
- Live sightings of the insects – These insects can move fast when looking for a hiding spot, but it’s still possible that you may spot one scurrying through your home.
- Small droppings – These droppings are commonly found in dark areas, such as behind appliances. Though they’re often mistaken for mouse droppings, cockroach droppings have ridges on the side and mouse dropping have pointed ends.
- Dark-colored egg capsules – You may find these capsules stashed in darker places, such as basements, under cabinets, garages, or sheds. They are dark-colored and typically redish or blackish brown.
As a Home Protection Plan customer, if you’re not satisfied with our pest control service, we will service your home at no additional cost until your issue is solved or receive your money back from your last scheduled service.
Though it’s difficult to completely prevent these pests from finding their way in your home, there are many ways to discourage it.
To avoid cockroach infestations, you should:
- Make sure all drains, including the drains in your basement bathrooms, have clean water in them.
- Make sure the crawl space is well-ventilated and dry.
- Place dehumidifiers in humid areas.
- Seal all openings around the outside of the your home.
- Clean any pet waist or pet food outside the home or in the yard right away.
- Solve any standing water issues in your yard or basement.
Schedule American Cockroach Removal in Baltimore
If you’re dealing with a cockroach infestation in your home, give Brody Brothers a call as soon as possible. Our pest control experts can locate and identify these pests, and then we provide and perform the necessary treatment. We also offer a Home Protection Plan that sets you up with a pest-free home year-round.
To speak with an American cockroach exterminator, give us a call at (410) 653-2121 or contact us online now.
