The German cockroach is infamous for infesting homes, multi-unit housing, businesses, restaurants, and many other types of buildings. In addition to simply being a gross infestation to deal with, German roaches spread bacteria and human pathogens that can be dangerous. These roaches can breed at rapid speed, making it important to enlist the help of a professional exterminator as soon as you notice the signs of a problem.

The experts at Formerly Connor’s an Ehrlich Company share our top ten German cockroach facts to keep in mind.

German Cockroach Facts to Remember

German cockroaches are one of the most feared pest problems. It’s important to know how to identify them through their appearance and behaviors:

1. German cockroaches can carry salmonella and other diseases that may be dangerous to humans.
2. German cockroach skins are tied back to causing severe asthmatic reactions in some people.
3. A good way to identify them is the pronotum (protective plate behind the head), which has two longitudinal dark stripes.
4. The ootheca (egg case) of the German cockroach contains between 35–40 eggs, which take one month to hatch.
5. German cockroaches have an extraordinary rate of reproduction. One female cockroach and her offspring can theoretically produce hundreds of thousands of offspring a year!
6. They are most commonly found in residential and commercial kitchens or bathrooms.
7. German cockroaches prefer areas of high temperatures and high humidity.
8. They are able to climb on smooth surfaces because they have a sticky pad called the arolium on their feet.
9. German cockroaches prefer to spend their lives hidden and protected. One sighting of a roach can mean many more are hidden inside walls, behind cabinets, inside appliances, and more.
10. German roaches are almost entirely found indoors. They can survive outdoors in warm weather, but it’s rare. 

Preventing German Cockroach Infestations

There are several ways you can lessen the risk of getting a German cockroach infestation. Some of our best cockroach prevention tips include:

• Always keep all food in sealed containers, secure your garbage securely, and store pet food in sealed containers with tight-fitting lids.
• Properly clean your space on a regular basis, eliminate clutter, and be wary of carrying in old items before inspecting them for German roaches.
• On a regular basis, clean out areas that are typically dark and rarely disturbed.
• Promptly address leaks or excess moisture in the home, such as standing water.

How to Get Rid of German Cockroaches

As soon as you spot a German cockroach, it’s time to call a professional exterminator. These roaches can be dangerous and spread quickly throughout your home or business, necessitating an expert’s assistance to get rid of them completely. At Formerly Connor’s an Ehrlich Company, our exterminators will control any active German cockroach infestation and prevent new ones from starting.