It is disgusting and exasperating to see a cockroach scurry inside your cabinet or across your floor. Does a single cockroach mean that you have an infestation? Perhaps. If you find one, there are likely more hiding in the dark crevices of your home. Don’t dismiss the problem. It is time to take action.

To address the situation, you must know the different types of cockroaches.

Different Types of Cockroaches

The term “cockroach” is an umbrella term that can refer to up to 5,000 species of bugs. Some types prefer warmth, while others are drawn to water or specific types of vegetation.

If you see one large cockroach, it may be an outdoor cockroach that has wandered into the home. Look for similar bugs near your home and a possible entranceway for the wayward creature.

However, if the creature is less than a half-inch in length, it is unlikely that a single cockroach is living in your home. These species of pests are highly social and tend to live in colonies. They usually enter through pipes or small cracks or crevices in the house. They reproduce at a high rate, so they can quickly become a problem.

What are the Signs of a Cockroach Infestation?

If a single cockroach has made an appearance in your home, it is time to go into detective mode. Look for the following common signs of a cockroach infestation:

  • Cockroach eggs and eggshells: Look for small, brown, oval-shaped disks near where cockroaches will be attracted: food, water and cardboard.
  • Cockroach droppings: If you see powdery, dark dots that look like ground pepper or coffee in the crevices or seams of your walls and counters, you may be looking at the droppings of cockroaches.
  • A strong, musty smell: If cockroaches have colonized your home, you could begin smelling a putrid odor similar to rancid grease.
  • Dead Cockroaches: Look carefully as you clean floors, cabinets or drawers for dead bugs or decaying body parts that you might miss until you train your eye to look for them.

What to Do if You See a Cockroach in Your Home 

Don’t waste time once you see evidence of cockroaches within your home. These pests carry disease and will quickly become a significant health hazard and a threat to your home. Look to Hart Pest Control for help in the eradication of these nasty creatures. We have over 45 years of experience in making homes safe and pest-free. Contact Hart Pest Control today for a free estimate.