Are you struggling with cockroaches in your home in Texas? If so, brace yourself, because these pests don’t just crawl–they fly. Yes, you read that right. These roaches do not just scurry on the floor, they like to fly and wreak havoc in our lives.
So, are you curious about which cockroach species can actually fly? And more importantly, how do you make sure they stay far, far away from your home? Let’s explore everything there is to learn about these roaches in Texas and learn how to get rid of them for good.
Which Texas Cockroaches Can Fly?
Before we talk about eliminating them, let’s identify the worst kinds. Not all types of roaches in Texas can fly, but there are a few who have mastered the art of flying. Here are they:
American Cockroach
American cockroaches are also known as the Texas tree roaches. This giant monster is one of the largest cockroach species and reaches up to 2 inches long. The worst part is that they don’t just fly, they glide (right at your face when you least expect it). These pests love warm, humid areas like the sewers, drains, attics, and kitchens of your home.
Smoky Brown Cockroach
Another giant, this Texas roach is dark brown in color and a strong flier. Though they prefer staying outdoors, these pests won’t hesitate to sneak into your home when it’s too hot or cold outside. You will often find them in trees, gutters, and under the leaf piles in your garden.
Asian Cockroach
These pests look almost similar to the German cockroaches in Texas, but unlike them, Asian cockroaches can fly extremely well. They are attracted to light. So, you can expect them to swoop in during late evenings when you turn on the porch light. They love leaf litter, mulch, and other humid hiding spots.
Roaches that Don’t Fly (But Are Still a Problem)
Now, don’t worry, not all Texas roaches can fly, but that does not mean they are any less annoying. Here are a few non-flying roaches you might still run into:
- German Cockroach: This is one of the most common household pests, but thankfully, it does not fly. However, it breeds like crazy and is one of the hardest to get rid of.
- Oriental Cockroach: These kinds of roaches are slow movers and prefer dark, damp places like basements, drains, septic tanks, and under sinks.
- Brown-Banded Cockroach: Unlike most cockroaches, these guys prefer drier environments and can be found in furniture, ceilings, and even in electrical appliances.
- Wood Cockroach: Now, this type is mostly an outdoor roach. They do sometimes wander into homes but do not like to make it their home. If you have a cockroach infestation in your home, it is probably some other type.
- Turkestan Cockroach: These pests are often confused with the Oriental cockroach. You can commonly find them in mulch and compost piles.
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches in Texas? 5 Easy Ways
It’s time to talk about the most important part–getting rid of them for good. Here are some ways you can try:
Cut off their Entry Points
Seal cracks, gaps, and holes around your windows, doors, and pipes. Make sure to cover your vents and drains with fine mesh. Try installing door sweeps and window screens to keep them from flying in.
Destroy Their Hideouts
Roaches love places like drains, sewers, bathrooms, kitchen sinks, and other wet places. Try to keep these places dry and clean. Those smoky brown roaches love hanging out there. In the kitchen or dining table, clean up the spills immediately and store food in airtight containers.
Maintain Proper Sanitation
Needless to say, roaches are attracted to food, water, and debris. So, make sure to regularly clean your kitchen and other areas where food is consumed. Try and vacuum daily to remove crumbs and food scraps from floors, countertops, and other surfaces. Pay close attention to areas behind appliances, under the sink, and inside cabinets where crumbs can accumulate.
Use Roach Killers
- Baits: Cockroach bait stations work wonders by luring roaches in and poisoning them slowly. It’s a bit slow but does the work.
- Sprays: Use residual insecticides around entry points and those areas that are prone to having these pests.
- Dust: Boric acid in the form of cockroach chalk can be applied in cracks and crevices to kill roaches when they crawl over them.
Call in the Professionals
If you are seeing roaches regularly, it is time to bring in a reputed pest control company. A professional can identify the specific Texas cockroach species in your home and use targeted treatments to wipe them out easily and permanently.
Wrapping Up
Texas roaches are a nightmare even if they do not fly. Now, that you know which roaches stay on the ground and how to get rid of them, you have the knowledge you need to fight these pests.
Seal your home, remove their hiding spots, and use the right roach killers. If all else fails, do not hesitate to call in the pros. Because let’s be honest, nobody wants to live with cockroaches as their roommates (flying or not).