The German cockroach is the most common roach species in Humboldt County. An average-sized German cockroach is around 5/8 of an inch long. They appear light to medium brown in color with two long, dark streaks on their thorax.
They are nocturnal insects that depend on moisture for survival. German cockroaches thrive in areas with plenty of heat and humidity. Look for the German cockroach outdoors in warmer months, and indoors during the colder months.
The brown-banded cockroach looks very similar to the German cockroach, sizing in at roughly 5/8 of an inch long as well. They can be differentiated by their wings, having two brownish yellow bands on the surface. The brown-banded cockroach is also nocturnal and prefer dark, warm areas with higher elevations. They differ from the German cockroach by flying more often and living within furniture. The brown-banded cockroach, unlike its German counterpart, is not dependent on moisture.
The Oriental cockroach is about one inch long and dark brown in color. They are most commonly found outdoors, near the ground and in warm, damp areas. Basements and ground floor storage areas are where you will likely find this species of cockroach. Oriental cockroaches give off a distinctive, unpleasantly foul odor, whereas the German and brown-banded cockroaches generally remain odorless.
The pest exterminators at 707 Pest Solutions are experienced in what makes each species of roach unique. The German cockroach is the most common roach species found in Humboldt County. They are dependent on moisture, whereas the similar looking brown-banded cockroaches are not. Both are nocturnal, and both can quickly create an infestation if left untreated. While cockroaches are generally regarded as nasty creatures, little evidence exists to link them to disease outbreaks.
When it comes to your home or office building, however, one cockroach is evidence enough that it’s time for professional help. 707 Pest Solutions can quickly eradicate an existing cockroach infestation, all while putting preventative measures in place to help them from reappearing.