Oriental Cockroaches

What do Oriental cockroaches look like?

Oriental cockroaches are about 1 inch long, and they appear shiny black. Like all cockroaches, they have six spiny legs but lack wings that hang past the abdomen. Oriental cockroach males have short wings that only cover ¾ of the abdomen. Females don’t have any wings at all, only wing pads.

Do Oriental cockroaches fly?

As noted above, Oriental cockroaches do not fly. Females don’t have wings, and males don't have wings strong enough to take flight. They are crawling pests.

What do Oriental cockroaches eat?

The diet of Oriental cockroaches is somewhat unsettling. They eat foods long past their due dates, as well as many things that humans don’t consider food. Here are a few examples:

• Dust
• Dead skin
• Hair
• Fecal matter
• Fabrics
• Starch
• Toothpaste
• Shed cockroach skins
• Each other
  

Are Oriental cockroaches dangerous?

Oriental cockroaches are considered dangerous to human health. Their exposure to decaying organic matter, feces, and other unpleasant things makes them a vector for disease-causing microorganisms. They contaminate packaged food, shelves, counters, cutting boards, plates, toothbrushes, and more.

Where do Oriental cockroaches live?

Outdoors, these insects gravitate to unsanitary environments, such as sewer culverts, dumpsters, trash cans, etc. Due to their high moisture requirement, they prefer damp or humid areas, but they can tolerate dry conditions if needed.

Indoors, they infest kitchens and pantries where food sources are plentiful. They also settle into bathrooms where food and moisture are available. Outdoors, they prefer damp, shaded areas.

How do Oriental cockroaches get into homes?

Oriental cockroaches often find their way into homes by taking advantage of entry points that provide access to food, water, and shelter. Here’s how they typically get in:

• Cracks and gaps: They can enter through small cracks in the foundation, gaps around doors, windows, or utility lines, and spaces under siding or vents.
• Drain and sewer pipes: Oriental cockroaches can access homes through drain pipes, sewer lines, or sump pumps.
• Garage or utility rooms: Open garage doors or poorly sealed utility rooms can allow oriental cockroaches to wander inside from nearby outdoor hiding spots.
• Carried inside: Sometimes, Oriental cockroaches hitch a ride into homes in bags, boxes, or other items stored in infested areas like garages or storage sheds.
  

What attracts Oriental cockroaches?

Oriental roaches are attracted to homes because they provide the three things these pests need to survive: food, water, and shelter. Here are a few things that draw them in:

• Open trash receptacles
• Junk piles
• Overgrown vegetation 
• Leaves and other organic clutter
• Damp soil
• Decaying organic matter
• Leaky pipes, dripping faucets, and other plumbing problems
• Compost piles
  

If conditions attract them to a property and they explore the exterior of structures, they will likely find their way indoors. Once inside, food crumbs, open trash, leaking faucets, and other conditions can allow them to stay. 

How do I get rid of Oriental cockroaches?

If you need assistance with cockroach control and prevention, contact Termio Pest Control. We offer year-round pest control service plans that cover cockroaches and other household pests, including ants and spiders.  

How can I prevent Oriental cockroaches from infesting my home?

The primary way to prevent an Oriental cockroach infestation is to alter the conditions that attract and allow them entry. Here are some quick tips:

Remove attractants

• Keep trash covered and get receptacles to the curb weekly.
• Store junk in bins.
• Trim vegetation to reduce shade.
• Water plants in the morning to cut down on moisture and humidity.
• Rake leaves and store sticks in a bin.
• Repair damaged sprinklers and address poor irrigation.

Seal entry points

• Replace out-of-date weatherproofing materials.
• Apply a sealant around pipes or AC lines.
• Replace damaged screens.
• Make sure screen frames are correctly fitted.
• Cover vents and weep holes.
• Use expanding foam to fill in crevices, cracks, cavities, and damaged materials near the foundation.

Sanitation

• Vacuum regularly.
• Soak dirty dishes in soapy water until you’re ready to wash them.
• Wipe shelves to remove food particles.
• Keep bathroom surfaces and the toilet clean.
• Store toothbrushes in plastic containers.

Address moisture

• Fix leaking faucets or showerheads.
• Fix weeping pipes or garbage disposals.
• Refrain from taking showers before bed.
• Utilize the fan in the bathroom.

Remove food

• Put pet food down only during meals.
• Store food in airtight containers.
• Keep food covered when left on the counter.
• Keep trash bins covered.
• Avoid putting food items in waste paper bins.