Cockroaches are easily some of the most common pests in the Alexandria area. However, they are also some of the most misunderstood as well. Many home and business owners are unfamiliar with the true nature of these insects and feel powerless to stop cockroach infestations from taking place.

Matar Termite & Pest Control is excited to provide these helpful cockroach FAQs to equip Alexandria locals to take control over their properties.

What Is A Cockroach?

Cockroaches are insects that are technically in the order 'Blattodea.' They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are very similar to beetles, earwigs, and other occasional invaders. Cockroaches go through a defined life cycle, including egg, nymph, and adult stages. Although there is a significant range of cockroach sizes and types, these pests share a few common characteristics; they carry a host of diseases, are fast runners, and many of them can fly. 

Are There Different Types Of Cockroaches?

There are many different species of cockroaches, but the most common in Alexandria include the American, Oriental, and German varieties. Distinct markings or colors can identify each type of cockroach. 

• American Cockroach: This is the largest type of cockroach found in America and is typically reddish-brown. 
• Oriental Cockroach: This variety of roach is shiny black and is the most common type of cockroach found in the Northern Hemisphere. 
• German Cockroach: This species is notorious for infesting Alexandria homes and businesses, as they are small in size and can easily travel through cracks and crevices. They are usually light brown. 

If you need help identifying cockroach species in your Alexandria home, look to the professional team at Matar Termite & Pest Control for help.

How Long Do Cockroaches Live For?

The life cycle of a cockroach is longer than most people expect. A typical cockroach will live for around one year, but some species can live for three years. This lifespan may be longer or shorter depending on the habitat or environment. For example, colonies that settle down in the wild may only live for months, while those that find a way into your home may live comfortably for longer than a year.

The long life cycle of the cockroach, coupled with their strong survival instincts, makes cockroach control almost impossible without professional help.

How Can I Get These Cockroaches Out Of My Home?

It is difficult to remove cockroaches with over-the-counter sprays and pesticides. Not only are they incredibly hardy and product resistant, but chemicals sold in retail stores could also harm home and business owners. Improperly applied products could do more harm than good and allow cockroaches to survive and thrive for months to come.

Pest control in Alexandria should never be out of reach. When the time comes to protect your home against the serious dangers of the various Virginia cockroach species, get in touch with the experts behind Matar Termite & Pest Control. Our experts will be able to serve your home and family within just a few visits, doing everything in our power to provide you with the greatest outcomes possible.

Your next home cockroach treatment is just a single phone call away! Contact Matar Termite & Pest Control to schedule an initial estimate for your home or business.