Finding a cockroach in your home is a startling and unwelcome discovery. While it’s easy to dismiss a single sighting as a stray bug, it’s often a sign of a larger, hidden problem. Cockroaches are masters of survival and prefer to stay out of sight, making it crucial to know the telltale signs of an infestation. If you live in Southern Ontario, The Spider Guys are here to help you identify these unwelcome pests.
The Most Common Species in Southern Ontario
Before you can identify the signs, it helps to know which species you’re likely to encounter. In Southern Ontario, the most common culprits are the German cockroach and the Oriental cockroach. At The Spider Guys, we’re well-versed in dealing with both.
- German cockroaches are the most prevalent. These small, tan to light brown roaches have two distinct dark stripes behind their heads. They are prolific breeders and are often found in warm, humid areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
- Oriental cockroaches, sometimes called “water bugs,” are larger and have a shiny, dark brown to black body. They prefer cool, damp environments such as basements, crawl spaces, and around drains.
While other species like the American and brown-banded cockroaches can also be found, the German and Oriental varieties are the most common household pests we tackle.
Signs of an Infestation
Cockroaches are primarily nocturnal, so seeing one during the day is often a strong indicator of a significant infestation. They only venture out in daylight hours when their population has grown too large for their hiding spots, forcing them to search for more food. However, even if you don’t see the insects themselves, you can look for other definitive signs.
1. Droppings and Smear Marks
Cockroach feces are one of the most common indicators. The appearance of the droppings depends on the size of the cockroach:
- Small cockroaches (like the German cockroach) leave behind feces that resemble tiny specks of black pepper or coffee grounds.
- Larger cockroaches produce cylindrical, ridged droppings that look similar to mouse droppings, but are slightly smaller.
You’ll often find these droppings in areas where roaches hide and feed, such as behind appliances, under sinks, inside cupboards, and along baseboards. Additionally, a large population may leave behind reddish-brown or brown smear marks on surfaces.
2. Foul Odour
Cockroaches release a musty, oily, or “dirty” smell. This odour is a result of their droppings, discarded skin, and the pheromones they use to communicate. In the early stages of an infestation, the smell might be subtle, but a severe infestation will produce a strong, unpleasant scent that is unmistakable and can permeate fabrics and other materials.
3. Egg Capsules and Shed Skin
Cockroaches reproduce by laying eggs in protective capsules called oothecae. These capsules are a clear sign of an infestation. The oothecae of German cockroaches are brown and about a quarter-inch long, while Oriental cockroach egg cases are darker and slightly larger. You may find these capsules in hidden, protected spots.
As cockroaches grow, they shed their skin, or exoskeleton, up to eight times. Finding these translucent, shell-like fragments is another sign that a cockroach population is growing and maturing in your home.
4. Allergic Reactions and Health Concerns
Cockroach waste, saliva, and shed skin all contain allergens that can become airborne. These allergens can trigger asthma and other allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals. If you or someone in your household experiences year-round symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, a sore throat, or itchy eyes without a clear cause, a cockroach infestation could be the culprit.
What to Do Next: Call The Spider Guys!
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to act quickly. Cockroaches can reproduce at an alarming rate, and a small problem can become a major infestation in a matter of months. While DIY methods may seem appealing, they are often ineffective for a full-scale infestation.
The most effective approach is to contact a professional pest control service. That’s where we come in! At The Spider Guys, we can accurately identify the species of cockroach, locate all their hiding spots, and implement a targeted treatment plan to eliminate cockroaches from your Southern Ontario home for good. Don’t let cockroaches take over—give us a call today!