German Cockroaches

Latin Name: Blattella germanica

What are German cockroaches?

German cockroaches are one of the most common and difficult cockroach species to control. They are often found in homes, apartments, restaurants, hotels, and businesses, especially in places where food, water, and shelter are available.

These roaches are small, usually about 1/2 to 5/8 of an inch long. They are light brown to tan and can be identified by the two dark stripes that run lengthwise on the shield-like area behind their head. German cockroaches have wings, but they do not usually fly. Instead, they move quickly and hide when disturbed.

Where will I find German cockroaches?

German cockroaches prefer warm, humid areas and are most often found indoors. Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, and food storage areas are common places for them to live.

They hide in cracks and crevices, cabinets, drawers, under sinks, behind appliances, around plumbing, inside wall voids, and under floors. Because they are mostly active at night, they may stay hidden during the day and come out after dark to search for food and water.

Why do I have a German cockroach problem?

German cockroaches are often brought inside without people realizing it. They can hitchhike into homes and businesses on bags, boxes, deliveries, used furniture, appliances, electronics, and luggage.

In apartments, condos, and other multi-unit buildings, German cockroaches can also move between units through wall voids, pipes, and utility lines. Once inside, they are drawn to crumbs, grease, food residue, trash, pet food, water sources, and cluttered areas where they can hide.

What do German cockroaches eat?

German cockroaches are scavengers and will feed on many types of organic matter. They are especially attracted to food crumbs, grease, spills, and food residue.

When food is limited, they may also feed on non-food items such as soap, glue, toothpaste, and book bindings. This adaptable diet helps them survive in many indoor environments.

Why are German cockroaches hard to control?

German cockroaches reproduce very quickly. A single female can produce several egg cases, with each one containing up to 40 eggs. Under the right conditions, they can develop from egg to adult in about 100 days, and adults may live for several months.

Because they hide in small, hard-to-reach spaces and reproduce rapidly, a small problem can become a larger infestation if it is not treated properly.

Are German cockroaches dangerous?

Yes, German cockroaches can be a serious health concern. As they travel through kitchens, bathrooms, trash areas, drains, and other unsanitary places, they can pick up bacteria, pathogens, and other germs on their bodies and legs.

They can contaminate food, dishes, counters, cabinets, and food preparation surfaces. German cockroaches have been linked to bacteria such as Salmonella and may contribute to illnesses like food poisoning, diarrhea, and dysentery.

Their droppings, saliva, shed skins, and body parts can also trigger allergies and asthma symptoms, especially in sensitive individuals. German cockroaches may also leave behind stains and an unpleasant odor.

How can I help prevent German cockroaches?

To help prevent German cockroaches, keep food sealed in airtight containers or stored in the refrigerator, including pet food. Clean up crumbs, grease, and spills quickly, wash dishes daily, wipe down counters, vacuum regularly, and remove trash often.

Outdoor trash cans and compost bins should have tight-fitting lids. Inside, reduce clutter so roaches have fewer places to hide.

It is also important to limit moisture. Fix leaky pipes and fixtures, keep sinks and counters dry, and use dehumidifiers in damp areas when needed. Seal cracks, gaps, and utility openings around the home, and repair damaged screens to help keep roaches from entering.

How do I get rid of German cockroaches?

German cockroaches are difficult to eliminate without professional help because they reproduce quickly and hide deep inside cracks, appliances, cabinets, and wall voids. PestNow uses a professional approach that may include inspection, sanitation recommendations, targeted treatments, monitoring, and prevention strategies to help eliminate activity and reduce the chance of the infestation returning.