California is no stranger to pest problems, especially when it comes to cockroaches. Notoriously hard to get rid of, these resilient insects can quickly become a nuisance, posing risks to your health and property.
There are multiple factors that cause certain areas in California to be a hub for cockroaches, including temperature, humidity levels, and human behavior. California has seen an uptick in cockroach activity in the last few years. Let’s dive into why California seems to have a cockroach problem.
The Prevalence of Cockroach Infestations in California
Cockroach infestations in California are common due to the warm climate, abundance of food sources, and urban settings. These adaptable insects thrive in both residential and commercial environments, making them a constant challenge for property owners. Particularly in densely populated areas like Los Angeles, cockroach infestations quickly spiral out of control if left unaddressed, leading to severe consequences for inhabitants.
In the last few years, Turkestan cockroaches have become prevalent in California due to unusually wet conditions. This uptick in cockroach population has led to an increase in cockroach sightings.
Cockroach Prevention in California: What Draws Cockroaches Indoors?
The first step in ensuring cockroaches stay out of your home is prevention. To pest-proof your property, you need to understand the factors which draw cockroaches in. Cockroaches are attracted to areas where they find three key features:
1. Sources of food
Cockroaches are not picky eaters. On top of any discarded food items, cockroaches feast on nearly any organic matter they can find. From toothpaste to paper and even glue, cockroaches will track these items down in search of a snack. If there is enough nearby, you are at risk of them setting up a permanent presence.
- Tip: Make sure your pet food is properly sealed when stored. Many homeowners leave their cat or dog food bags open or let food sit out overnight, which presents an enticing target for any wandering roaches.
2. Moisture and Water
The math is pretty simple: food + water = life. California’s frequent drought conditions cause cockroaches to go to great lengths to find sources of hydration. Leaky pipes, pet water bowls, condensation on window sills, and damp sponges or dish rags are all clear signs to roaches that your home should be their home.
Be sure to make sure there is no standing water in your sink, bathtub, garage, or anywhere else to deprive roaches of the water they are looking for.
3. Dark Places to Hide and Reproduce
Cockroaches are nocturnal insects, meaning they are most comfortable exploring at night when they are hard to spot and predators are asleep. They’ll hide in the gaps between and under your furniture or appliances and can often be found in walls or attics where moisture is abundant and light is scarce.
Combined with a stable food source, they’ll reproduce quickly and start multiplying fast. So if you find one roach in your home, there is a high chance that several dozen more are hiding out of sight.
Health Risks of Roaches
Beyond being an unsettling presence, cockroaches can pose significant health risks to humans. They are known carriers of various pathogens and allergens that can trigger asthma and other respiratory issues, especially in sensitive individuals like children and the elderly. Cockroach infestations can also contaminate food and surfaces, leading to the transmission of diseases like Salmonella and E. coli. Moreover, these pests can cause damage to property by chewing on wires, books, and fabrics, potentially leading to costly repairs.
Dealing with Roaches on the West Coast? Call Brooks Pest Control.
Our team of experts is dedicated to providing top-notch cockroach control in California, Washington, and Oregon, that will help you take back control of your home from cockroaches. Call us today, and for a same-day inspection and treatment that is deadly to roaches but pet and family-friendly.
Every pest problem is different. With our years of experience in pest control, we have perfected our techniques to target cockroaches at their source and eliminate them completely. Our skilled technicians will implement the most appropriate and tailored approach to suit your specific situation to get rid of the cockroaches in your home. We keep the roaches out with retreatments every 60 days so they stay gone.
Brooks Pest Control does the job right. Schedule your 100% satisfaction guaranteed inspection today!