There are around 4,500 cockroach species on the planet, but thankfully, you'll only ever encounter a few of these species in California. You might have heard about some Los Angeles cockroaches like the common German cockroach or the sizeable American cockroach, but there is another invasive roach to consider. The brown-banded cockroach is a type of cockroach that made its way into the United States in 1903 on ships traveling here from Cuba. Now, these cockroaches live throughout the country.
Like other species, the brown-banded cockroach is a dangerous and repulsive home-invading pest. If you have an infestation or want to prevent these nasty pests, this Los Angeles pest control expert guide will help.
What Do Brown-Banded Cockroaches Look Like?
Brown-banded cockroaches are relatively small for roaches and only grow to about ½ an inch long. They are dark brown and have tan banded markings on their bodies and wings. Like all cockroach species, they have six legs, antennae, and wings that lay flat on their backs.
These roaches generally seek out humid areas with access to food. They crawl in kitchen cabinets, around bathrooms, or behind wall hangings. They are also incredibly prolific, as just one female lays around 14 egg capsules, each containing about 10-18 eggs. This ability allows the brown-banded cockroach to spread quickly throughout your home.
Are Brown-Banded Cockroaches Dangerous?
You probably know that cockroaches are nasty and not a pest you want in your home, but it's easy to underestimate the risks. Brown-banded cockroaches pose many health concerns. They often carry pathogens on their bodies and spread these germs around your home and into your food. Because they spend so much time around filth and decay, they pick up nasty debris and carry it to wherever they go.
Some of the diseases cockroaches carry are dysentery, gastroenteritis, and salmonella, and these roaches also have allergens that can trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks. You should always sanitize surfaces that cockroaches touch and discard any contaminated food.
But, the best way to protect your Los Angeles property from cockroaches is with professional pest services from our team at A Step Above Pest Control & Termite.
Why Is It So Hard To Get Rid Of Brown-Banded Roaches In Homes?
Brown-banded cockroaches are similar to German cockroaches because of their invasiveness. Both species do well indoors and are small enough to fit in many cracks and crevices throughout your property. The brown-banded cockroach is primarily nocturnal, so an infestation may go unnoticed.
The difficulties with removing these roaches are their hardiness and how tricky they are once they invade. Brown-banded cockroaches are resistant to many products meant to remove them, and it's tough to access all the places they can hide.
Total Cockroach Control For Los Angeles Residents
If you see brown-banded cockroaches around your property, trying to remove them on your own is usually a waste of time and money. These dangerous pests are incredibly challenging to eradicate, so professional cockroach control services are often necessary. While you could purchase baits and traps, the infestation is likely to return.
Instead, make the process simple. At A Step Above Pest Control & Termite, our team uses safe and effective methods to remove and prevent brown-banded cockroaches. Call us today to learn more about home pest control plans for cockroaches.