Frequently Asked Questions About Cockroaches

There’s nothing worse than flipping on a light and seeing a big cockroach scurry across the floor. These pests are difficult to kill, smell bad, and can cause allergies and other issues. Unfortunately, cockroaches are pretty common here in Wisconsin – we perform several cockroach treatments around the Fox Cities each year. Learn more about cockroaches and how to keep them out of your home with this quick guide from the K&C Pest Control team: 

1. What are the most common types of cockroaches in Wisconsin?

The most common types of cockroaches in Wisconsin and throughout Oshkosh and the surrounding area are:

• German cockroaches
• Brownbanded cockroaches
• American cockroaches
• Oriental cockroaches. 

Cuban, Surinam, Australian, and Smokey Brown cockroaches appear on a less frequent basis. These pests are generally transported via plants, wood, and produce from other areas.

2. What do cockroaches look like?

Most cockroaches are oval-shaped, brown or black, and between 1 to 2 inches. However, every type of roach looks a little bit different and have some defining characteristics. 

• German cockroaches are light brown/tan with parallel dark stripes down their backs and approximately 1/2  to 5/8 inches long,
• Brownbanded cockroaches are approximately 1/2 an inch long, light brown, and have yellowish-brown stripes across their abdomens.
• American cockroaches are reddish-brown, have a yellow pattern on their heads, and are approximately 1 1/2 to 2 inches long.
• Oriental cockroaches are generally black and appear glossy. They are generally 1 to 1 ¼ inches long.

3. Where do cockroaches hide?

Most cockroaches tend to hide in dark, moist places during the day. You may find them under your appliances, in sinks, or in damp attics, crawl spaces, and basements.

4. Are cockroaches attracted to light?

No. Most cockroaches are nocturnal and active at night when lights are off or dim. While they can become acclimated to light, they generally tend to scatter when you turn on a light switch or shine a flashlight at them. Because of their nocturnal tendencies and aversion to light, spotting a cockroach during the daytime is a good indicator that you may have an infestation.

5. Can cockroaches bite?

Yes, but they don’t generally bite humans unless there’s no other food source available.

6. Can cockroaches fly?

While many species of cockroaches have wings, many are not good flyers or do not fly at all. Some species, like American and German cockroaches, will glide through the air for short distances.

7. How do cockroaches get into your house?

These craft pests generally get in your home or business through small holes and cracks along doors, windows, and flooring. They’ve also been known to sneakily hitch a ride on backpacks, bags, soft-sided coolers, and clothing as you make your way inside after spending time outdoors.

8. What attracts cockroaches in your home?

Like most pests, cockroaches are attracted to food and water sources in your home. Things like garbage and empty food containers left on counters, dirty dishes in the sink, pet food, and crumbs on the floor are all potential culprits. Keeping your home tidy and clean is a good way to deter these pests.

9. Why are cockroaches so hard to kill?

Their incredibly strong exoskeletons make cockroaches very difficult to squish with stomps, newspapers, and fly swatters. Plus, they are nimble and can easily flatten themselves to easily escape into cracks and crevices.

10. What is the best way to get rid of cockroaches?

As noted above, one of the best things you can do is to keep things clean. That includes taking out the garbage, washing dishes, and sweeping/mopping floors. There are also a variety of store-bought traps and bait, but those aren’t generally effective when it comes to infestations. If you have a cockroach problem, your best bet is to call a pest control specialist, like K&C. We’ll make sure the job is done quickly and efficiently, so you don’t have to worry!  

If you’re dealing with cockroaches or other pests in your Fox Cities home or backyard, K&C Pest Control is here to help. Contact us at 920-582-9000.