In Indiana, it is believed that there are 6 different types of cockroaches. The American Cockroach, Brown-Banded Cockroach, German Cockroach, Oriental Cockroach, Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach, and the Smokybrown Cockroach.
The American Cockroach
The largest roach located in the State of Indiana is the American cockroach. These are believed to have originated in Africa and the countries of the Middle East; however, it is believed that they were introduced to the United States through ships that came from Africa in the early part of the 1600s. This cockroach type is known by many names. These include the “palmetto bug”, the “water bug”, and the “Bombay canary”.
This type of roach is considered to be one of the fastest of all insects. It has been estimated that the American cockroach can travel at a rate of 3.4 miles. The back of the insect looks like the number 8 and it is brown in color. While there are wings on the insect, it does not fly well and can only cover short distances at a time when flying. These insects have the ability to infect people with up to 22 dangerous illnesses. They carry proteins that trigger allergies and asthma attacks. They live in areas with a lot of moisture which allows them access to food sources.
The Brown-Banded Cockroach
One of the most common roaches in the State of Indiana is the brown-banded cockroach. They have small abdominal sections that are brown and display light-colored bands. These have a high tolerance to heat and do not require a lot of moisture, like other types of roaches. If they infest a home, they may be found in all locations – including appliances. These insects may carry and spread potentially harmful protozoa and bacteria to people. Additionally, they may trigger those who have allergies and asthma.
The German Cockroach
In the State of Indiana, the German cockroach is a year-round pest. These are small, dark brown in color, and typically have two stripes located on their back. These originated in Southeast China. Interestingly enough, these are dependent upon humans to live. It is common to find these roaches in bathrooms and kitchens. These roaches leave stains and cause a highly unpleasant odor. They are among the most difficult types of roaches to eliminate. These pose the following dangers:
- They carry harmful bacteria all over their body
- Many forms of bacteria in their body could cause food poisoning and/or the development of dysentery
- Only one touch to this type of insect and you could transfer disease to another surface, such as food or locations where foods are prepared
- These roaches carry salmonellosis, cholera, typhoid fever, listeriosis, gastroenteritis, giardia, and E. coli
The Oriental Cockroach
The oriental cockroach is known by many names. These include “black beetles” and “waterbugs”. This is mainly due to the fact that the insects prefer environments that are both wet and dark. These are slow roaches that experience issues in climbing and cannot fly, whatsoever. The body is smooth and typically dark brown or black. They are usually found in basements, near porches, near drains, under woodpiles, and near leaves.
These are considered the filthiest of all roaches in the State of Indiana. They emit a powerful odor and will eat just about anything. These insects spread germs and diseases easily. They carry E. coli and Salmonella. They are capable of spreading food poisoning. While there are over-the-counter products that are designed to kill, trap, and manage these roaches, it is best to seek professional pest control services for quick elimination.
The Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach
photo: wikimedia
This roach type is not one that is native to Indiana, but in recent years has been spotted frequently. These are often confused with palmetto bugs, but it is because they are so large. These may grow to a whopping two inches. They may be dark brown, black, and everything in between. They prefer forests and green plants and decaying wood there, but they may also be found in tree stumps, piles of wood, and the hollows of trees.
Many people in Indiana find these insects in the firewood that they use. In fact, this is how most of these insects get inside of homes and other structures – by hitching a ride in on firewood pieces. For the most part, they are harmless; however, their large size and infestations make them annoying pests. It is very uncomfortable to live with these insects, but with professional pest control, the insects may be easily and quickly eliminated.
The Smokybrown Cockroach
These roaches are typically identified by the light brown or yellow-colored band across the backside. They are brown in color, have wings that are longer than their body, and the body is oval-shaped. They may grow as large as 1.5 inches. These insects are scavengers and will eat everything that they are able to stumble upon. They prefer the outdoors and the heat. It is common to see these roaches around drains, near leaves, and in other dark, damp locations. The feces may contaminate food products and surfaces. If water and food sources are eliminated, these insects may be eliminated.
Do Cockroaches in Indiana Fly?
Most cockroaches are unable to fly, but there are species that are able to fly short distances, such as the American cockroach.
Why Do Cockroaches Invade Homes?
Cockroaches – like just about every other creature on the planet – are attracted to areas that may serve as a shelter, have a water source, and have a food source. In most instances, if there is a roach in your home, they have found a suitable shelter, food, or water. If you keep your home clean, remove debris, do not store a lot of items, eliminate food and water sources, and do a regular inspection of your home, you will likely avoid the complication of an infestation. Just to be on the safe side, though, it is advised that you obtain professional pest control services in order to prevent an infestation from occurring. If an infestation does occur, contact your local exterminator for immediate assistance.
What are the Feeding Habits of Cockroaches?
In short, the roach will eat any type of organic-based food that is available to them. It does not matter if it is a starch, a sweet, a book, soap, or even some type of decaying matter; it is a meal for a roach. Additionally, roaches love water. The longest they can go without food is a month. The longest they can go without water is up to a week. Remove all food and water sources and you will find that you experience fewer complications with roaches.
Contact Us Today
We here at All Pest Exterminating are well-trained and versed in dealing with a roach problem. If you have seen a roach in your home or even near it, we can help! If you want to avoid seeing a roach in or even near your home, we can help you, too! Our comprehensive services will keep your home protected from a large variety of pests. If you would like to learn more about what we offer or obtain immediate assistance, contact us now by calling: 765-259-0043