German Roach— Blattella
germanica
The German cockroach is 12 to 17 mm (1/2 to 5/8 inch)
long, tan to light brown, and has two dark brown stripes
on the body region (pronotal shield) just behind the
head. Females will produce four to eight egg capsules
during their lifetime, with each capsule containing
approximately 40 eggs. The egg capsule is retained by
the female until the eggs are ready to hatch, usually
in 28 to 30 days.
German cockroaches are widespread and can be found
in homes, restaurants, hospitals, nursing homes or apartments.
Within these areas, the cockroaches prefer sites close
to moisture and food, making them common pests in kitchens,
bathrooms and food-storage areas. Of the cockroaches
which infest structures, the German cockroach is probably
found more frequently than other species.
Roaches are every homeowners nightmare. If given the
opportunity, German Roaches will become a permanent
family member! There are different ways of dealing with
this pest, but three qualities you need are 1) patience,
2) persistence and 3) knowledge. Patience is needed
because you cannot spray one time and expect to never
see another roach. Egg cases will hatch and follow-up
treatments are necessary. When sightings occur after
treatments, use these sightings to your advantage. There
must be a nest or two you missed so attack that area.
Persistence is needed when dealing with roaches because
of their biology. Roaches develop rapidly and studies
confirm they will develop faster when their population
is under stress. Many of you have experienced a population
explosion within two to six weeks after a major clean
out. This is nature's way of preserving the species.
A treatment schedule must be made and then strictly
adhered to when you decide to clean out a roach infestation.
Think long term and schedule treatments for the year.
This insures your commitment.
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