Cockroaches are unpleasant and unwelcome guests in any home. But how do you know if you have a full-blown infestation or a stray critter?
Professionals offering pet control in Bedfordshire or nearby locations will help you properly manage pests by identifying the signs of infestation.
Signs you could have an infestation
1. Spotting them:
This might seem obvious, but seeing cockroaches, alive or dead, is the clearest sign of an infestation. Cockroaches are nocturnal, so sightings at night are more likely. Look in dark corners, kitchens, bathrooms, and around pipes.
2. Droppings and shed skin:
Cockroaches leave little droppings that look like dark pepper pellets. You might also find their shed skin, which resembles a transparent shell. These signs are often hidden in dark corners, behind appliances, or under cupboards.
3. The musty smell of cockroaches:
Large infestations can produce a musty odour that some people describe as oily or sweet. This smell is caused by pheromones, which are used for communication among cockroaches. If your home starts to develop a strange smell, especially in areas where you haven’t noticed other signs, it could be cockroaches.
4. Evidence of cockroach activity:
Cockroaches like to munch on various things, including food crumbs, pet hair, and even soap. If you see areas with unexplained smear marks or grease around cracks and corners, it could be from cockroaches foraging for food.
5. Damaged packaging and food:
Cockroaches love to nibble on food and can chew through cardboard and plastic packaging. Check your dry goods, such as cereals, pasta, and biscuits, for signs of gnawing. They might also contaminate your food with bacteria, so be vigilant about keeping it sealed.
If you find one or two of these signs, taking action quickly is important. Here are some next steps:
- Contact a pest control professional: they can identify the type of cockroach and recommend the best treatment.
- Seal up cracks and holes: this will make it harder for cockroaches to enter your home.
- Deep clean your kitchen and bathroom: pay close attention to areas with food and water.
- Store food properly: keep food in airtight containers, and don’t leave crumbs or spills around.
Following these tips, you can keep your Bedfordshire home free of unwanted creepy crawlies. Remember, early detection is key. The sooner you take action, the easier it will be to eliminate a cockroach infestation. Call the experts from Forrest Environmental Services today, who provide bespoke pest control solutions in Bedfordshire.
