German Cockroach

German Cockroaches in Illinois and Indiana

While these cockroaches are smaller than other roaches, they are in fact the most abundant species in the country. They range in colors from tan to almost black, with two dark stripes on the back of their heads. Because they forage for food at night, you may catch a glimpse of them scuttling into cracks and crevices when you turn on your kitchen or bathroom lights. German cockroaches are also carriers of disease and filth, and because they can reproduce quickly, you can have a full-blown infestation on your hands before you know it.

German Cockroach Habitat

German cockroaches prefer to live in areas that have access to water, which often makes kitchens and bathrooms their main spot. If sanitation is poor, the German cockroach can successfully expand its normal habitat to include all portions of a structure where adequate food, water, and shelter exist. German cockroaches prefer to hide in wooden and paper materials, as well as electrical equipment. These roaches can also be found hiding in cabinets, drawers, up under sinks, and inside heat-producing appliances like dishwashers, microwaves, and coffee makers.

German Cockroach Behaviors & Dangers

German cockroaches are not known to bite humans. That said, they are vectors of disease and can spread germs and bacteria wherever they go. German cockroaches can also cause allergic reactions, due to the insects leaving fecal matter and cast skins around the home. For some individuals, this can cause skin rashes, watery eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion, and asthma. In addition to spreading disease, German cockroach infestations can simply cause human psychological stress.

Cockroaches can be in more areas of the home than you realize, which is why it’s so important to contact a professional cockroach exterminator as soon as you notice an infestation forming.