Types of Cockroaches in Houston
There are hundreds of species of cockroach around the world. We're lucky in Houston that we don't have to deal with the giant hissing cockroaches of Madagascar, but there a plenty of varieties of these unpleasant insects that make East Texas their home.
The hot, humid climate of Houston unfortunately provides an ideal breeding ground for many species of roaches, and the abundant supply of food and shelter that humans unintentionally supply them with means that Houston's battle with cockroaches is going to be going on as long as there are people here.
There are four main species of cockroaches in the Houston area. One of the easiest ways to tell apart different species of roaches you find in Houston is by their size:
Small Roaches
The German cockroach is the species of small cockroaches that are often seen indoors. Although called German cockroaches, the species originated in Africa and has difficulty surviving in colder climates, so the hot, humid climate of Houston is a perfect home for them. German cockroaches will often an unpleasant odor when disturbed. These bugs will eat nearly anything, including soap, glue, and toothpaste. German cockroaches are particularly good at establishing themselves inside of houses, and can be extremely difficult to get rid of once they've set themselves up inside a home.
Big Roaches
The American Cockroach is one of the most common species of cockroach found in Houston. These dark-colored roaches can grow up to 1 to 1 1/2 inches in length, and prefer to gather in dark, moist places. Equally comfortable inside the home or out, American cockroaches will routinely set themselves up in wood piles, basements, under refrigerators, or any other dark place with easy access to shelter.
Oriental Cockroaches or Waterbugs are another large species of cockroach, but unlike the Tree roach these bugs are not as content to live outdoors. They get the name waterbug from their attraction to damp, dark places and they love to gather around pipes and under sinks. Though similar in size to Tree roaches, their wings are comparatively underdeveloped and they are only capable of flying short distances.
Really Big Roaches
Tree Roaches or Palmetto Bugs are technically a species of roach called the Florida Woods Cockroach. Their chief distinguishing feature is that they are really, really big, routinely growing up to 2 inches in length. Tree roaches are less inclined to avoid the light than other species of roaches, and can often be seen during the daylight. They love the palmettos and pine trees that surround Houston. The good news is that tree roaches are less likely to come into houses than other types of roaches, but they are great lovers of dampness and will enter houses during drought conditions.
No matter what the species, cockroaches can be difficult to get rid of. Sprays and bombs often have little effect except making the cockroaches stronger. If you see cockroaches in your home, the best thing to do is contact a professional pest control expert who can develop a comprehensive plan to get rid of the roaches and stop them from coming in to your home again.
For the best in pest protection, pest control and extermination services, call Bulls Eye Pest Control at 713.222.PEST (7378). Bulls Eye Pest Control is a family owned and operated, fully licensed pest control and exterminator service.
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