How to Tell if You Have a Cockroach Infestation

Nobody wants to see a cockroach scuttling across their kitchen counter. In addition to being creepy critters, these pests can spread serious diseases to humans or trigger allergic reactions. So how can you tell if you have an infestation? Besides actually seeing them, they leave behind gross souvenirs, like droppings.

And, unfortunately, cockroaches are drawn to warm environments – which makes many areas throughout southern Nevada the perfect habitat for these insects.

So let’s get into how you can spot an active infestation and how professional extermination is your best option in getting rid of them.

How Can You Tell if You Have Roaches? (3 Signs)

Looking for signs of a cockroach infestation can help you identify an outbreak before it gets out of hand. Some signs you might be dealing with a cockroach infestation include:

1. Droppings: Cockroach feces look somewhat like coffee grounds or black pepper. They usually measure about 1mm wide, though the length can vary quite a bit. If you encounter droppings, proceed with caution – cockroach feces often contain dangerous bacteria.
2. Shed skin: Cockroaches shed their skin several times throughout their life cycle, which means you will likely spot old skin if there is an infestation nearby. In addition to skin, you may find other body parts such as antennae or legs if there is an outbreak in the area.
3. Foul smell: These pests are known for having a distinct and unpleasant odor. The smell is a byproduct of their pheromones, and most people report it smelling damp or musky.

Types of Las Vegas Cockroaches

Knowing what types of cockroaches to look out for can help you detect an infestation early. 

Some of the most common types of cockroaches in southern Nevada include:

• American cockroach: These roaches are very fast and can fly. You can identify them by the yellow-tinted figure 8 on the back of their head, and they are usually dark reddish-brown. Though they can survive lower temperatures, these roaches are most active when it is 70 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer.
• German cockroach: These roaches are usually light brown in color, and they can be identified by the two dark stripes on their back. Though German cockroaches can fly, they mostly prefer to run around on their feet.
• Oriental cockroach: Typically dark brown or black, these roaches have a distinct glossy appearance. Oriental cockroaches typically grow to about an inch in length, and they have tiny hairs on their legs. Although these roaches have wings, they cannot fly.
• Brown Banded Cockroach: These roaches are small compared to other types (one of the smallest, in fact). As their name suggests, they have bands across their abdomen and wings. They also range from tan to brown in color.
• Australian cockroach: Though these roaches look very similar to the American cockroach, they can be distinguished by the light yellowish stripes on the edges of their wings. Australian cockroaches typically measure between 1 and 1.5 inches, and they often prefer very humid areas.

We Exterminate Roaches in Vegas

If you notice any signs of cockroaches around your house, it’s important to act quickly to keep your home and family safe. With over 2025 years of experience protecting homes throughout Clark County NV, from cockroaches and other dangerous pests, our expert cockroach exterminators can help you treat an infestation quickly and effectively. 

Call us today to schedule an appointment! You can also fill out a form here to request a service quote.

<< Back to Cockroach Exterminators