Cockroach Control

Roach Control

Honolulu | Kailua | Kapolei | Aiea | Wahiawa

Perhaps some of the worst kinds of pests to deal with are those that have excellent survival skills. Cockroaches fall into that category. It’s often hard for those that own a home or business suffering from a cockroach infestation to easily get control of the situation. Sandwich Isle offers roach control services to help you deal with these hearty pests. Cockroaches are typically thought to only inhabit dirty establishments, but they can actually take up residence in your home quite easily. They’re attracted to a variety of things that can act as food sources around your home or business including dog food, crumbs, soap, and more. Infestations can start with something as simple as one hitching a ride into your home on boxes or other things. Once they’ve arrived, they are very elusive and hide among clutter or in places with little foot traffic. If you’ve seen one in your home, it’s likely you have a big problem as they tend to stay out of sight. They can multiply quickly if left alone, so catching an infestation before it gets destructive and focusing on prevention is key.

Cockroaches in Hawaii

There are plenty of creepy crawly creatures that call Hawaii home with cockroaches being one of the pests you may have to deal with as a property owner. Since cockroaches thrive in warmer weather, Hawaii is a perfect place for them to live. We’re not the only ones who enjoy paradise!

While there are 19 species of cockroaches in Hawaii, there are three native to the islands that really cause the most problems. Understanding how they operate and thrive is key in prevention and elimination. Here’s a look at the most common types of cockroaches found on the islands.

American Cockroaches

American Cockroaches are one of the largest species that can be found in the state. This species can grow to be up to two inches in length and typically has reddish-brown wings with a light-colored band around the pronotum. Both male and female American cockroaches develop wings and can fly. Females can reproduce quickly, laying a sack of 16 eggs after mating. In ideal conditions, she can produce an egg sack every six days, which means an infestation can happen very fast. The average lifespan from egg to adult is a wide range with as few as 168 days to as many as 786 days. American cockroaches are typically found in kitchens, bathrooms, or places where there is little foot traffic. They feed on pet food, rotting produce, beer, and more. They are also capable of carrying pathogens that cause disease, so getting roach control help is crucial if you have a problem.

German Cockroaches

The German cockroach is light brown in color, can grow up to half an inch as an adult, and has wings but can’t fly. Their wings may be able to soften the landing of a fall, but they can’t take flight. Though they can’t fly they are very fast runners and scurry quickly. This species of cockroach can be found in kitchens and bathrooms and feed on almost anything including glue, toothpaste, and soap. Because of their smaller size, they like to live in walls and cracks, only coming out to feed when necessary. Professional roach control is helpful when dealing with any species but especially this one because of its preferred residence and size.

Surinam Cockroaches

Surinam cockroaches also like to call Hawaii home. These pests grow to about an inch in length and feature dark brown bodies with shiny brown wings. The males have longer wings but neither males or females can really fly well. Female cockroaches do not need males to reproduce and, in fact, males are basically extinct in North America. These roaches live in soil and can wreak havoc on vegetation. While they can enter the home and live there, they’re usually found outside under rocks, compost piles, trash, or just in the soil. 

Why are there cockroaches in my house?

Cockroach infestations typically begin when they are transported from an infested place into your home in boxes and other items. Once they are in your home, they can hide amongst clutter in your attic or closets where there is little foot traffic. Uncleanly habits such as leaving out food or dirty dishes can encourage an infestation since this type of clutter provides a good food source for the cockroaches. Other pests like Surinam roaches live in the soil, being transported through potted plants. Without addressing a cockroach infestation, they can multiply very quickly.

Are cockroaches dangerous?

A lot of humans are allergic to cockroaches. If you experience sudden onset allergies, it may be triggered by a cockroach infestation. Cockroaches also cause sanitary problems. When they get into food, it quickly becomes contaminated. Even if you aren’t allergic to cockroaches, their presence causes dirty and uncleanly conditions. Cockroaches frequently live in sewers, bringing these conditions with them as they migrate indoors. Pet food bowels are also an easy target for cockroaches, making them a health threat to your dog or cat. Cockroaches can bite humans, but it’s highly unlikely. Although the odds are in your favor, there have been reported cases of cockroaches biting nails, eyelashes, and calloused skin on heels.

How can I prevent a cockroach infestation?

When cockroaches venture into your home, they stay because they have found a food source. By getting rid of their food source, you’ll be less likely to have an infestation. Remember that roaches aren’t picky when it comes to their dinner, so search for potential food sources. Try changing elements of your environment to discourage cockroach activity.

• Keep all your food in airtight containers.
• Clean up after eating and food preparation. Even the smallest crumbs in your kitchen are an open invitation for roaches.
• Don’t leave stagnant water out. Drain sinks and tubs and keep toilets covered.
• Be vigilant about cleaning. Regularly vacuum hidden corners and wipe down surfaces with cleanser and water or a vinegar and baking soda mixture.
• Wash your dishes immediately after use.
• Repair leaky pipes and drainage.
• Seal openings around the exterior of your home, focusing on where the structure meets the ground.
• Inspect new potted plants before bringing them home from greenhouses or nurseries.

No matter what type of roach you may have spotted at your property, it’s important to bring in professional help. Roach control is crucial to a happy, healthy home. The experts at Sandwich Isle have been helping Hawaii’s residents with a variety of pest control for decades. Contact us today if you’ve spotted a cockroach or any other type of pest. We’ll work with you to devise a plan to begin right away.