The American cockroach is a reddish-brown colored insect found across the nation. It ranges in length between one and three inches, and has wings that cover most of its body. Often called a water bug or palmetto bug, the cockroach is capable of flight, but it tends to fly more often in warmer climates.

An enemy of Shreveport, Louisiana homeowners and J&J pest exterminators alike, these bugs usually live outside in basements, sewers, flowerbeds and other warm, dark, moist areas. However, they may venture into homes seeking food and water. Their relatively flat bodies can easily slip under doors with deficient weather stripping. Garage doors and windows are also access points. Once indoors, they tend to gravitate toward moist areas like bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. They will eat crumbs, scraps, pet food and even paper or small wood chips. You can often find a cockroach hiding under sinks and appliances or inside cabinets. If startled, it may fly.

A Formidable, Frustrating Foe

The American cockroach is notoriously difficult to eliminate. It can survive up to three weeks without food and for several weeks after being decapitated. Roaches have faster reflexes than people; they can run up to three miles per hour and swim underwater for 30 to 40 minutes. Once a female roach mates once, she can reproduce for the rest of her lifespan. The cockroach isn’t just a nuisance. Because it crawls through garbage and sewage, it often carries bacteria and viruses on its legs. Some of these contaminants cause serious disease in humans. People with asthma or allergies may have strong reactions to cockroaches and their feces. To keep your home and family safe and sanitary, it’s important to obtain professional extermination services to get rid of a cockroach infestation.

American Cockroach Prevention Tips

To discourage roaches from visiting and staying in your home, observe the following tips.

• Put away all available food and water sources.
• Seal cracks and crevices near entry points.
• Keep trees and shrubs trimmed.
• Pull mulch away from your home’s foundation.
• Eliminate roof and plumbing leaks.
• Use yellow bug lights on your porch.

Win the War Against Shreveport Louisiana Cockroaches

Shreveport, Louisiana roaches might be stubborn, but they’re no match for experienced, professional pest exterminators. If you see live roaches, find small, black droppings or notice an odd musty smell, contact J&J exterminating at once to wipe out your cockroach problem before it gets worse.