Oriental Cockroaches in Atlanta, GA
Commonly known as “black beetles” or “water bugs”, the oriental cockroach is a significant household pest prevalent in regions of the northwest, mid-west, and the southern United States. This species of cockroach is drawn to damp and shaded perimeter areas, showing a preference for the darkness and moisture found in basements, cellars, and crawl spaces. Oriental cockroaches have been observed climbing water pipes and garbage chutes to reach upper floors in apartment buildings. Feeding on a variety of filth, debris, and decaying organic matter, they exhibit a particular affinity for garbage and the contents of discarded tin cans.
Oriental Cockroach Habitat
Oriental cockroaches are frequently encountered outdoors, residing in warm, damp, shaded regions near the ground. Beyond households, they often congregate near or under trash cans. While they may seek refuge indoors when temperatures drop, these cockroaches can withstand cooler weather. Entry into homes can occur through various means, including hitchhiking in food packages from grocery stores or infiltrating through exterior doors, garage entrances, air ducts, and ventilators. Indoors, they tend to remain on lower floors, displaying slower movement compared to other cockroach species. Common indoor locations for oriental cockroaches include toilets, bathtubs, sinks, radiators, and pipes. Their presence indoors is typically seasonal, with adults commonly appearing from May through July.
Oriental Cockroach Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
While oriental cockroaches don’t cause structural damage to homes, they pose a significant health risk to you and your family. Cockroaches, known for spreading disease, have been found to carry 33 different types of bacteria, including E. Coli and Salmonella. As they forage for food, oriental cockroaches contaminate food items and surfaces in our homes with harmful bacteria. Moreover, they present a substantial threat to individuals with allergies or asthma, as their shed skins and feces can trigger severe reactions.
Immediate attention is crucial when dealing with an oriental cockroach infestation. Contact the professional cockroach exterminators at Inspect-All Pest Services for assistance.
