Cockroaches in Nebraska: What You Need to Know
What Kinds of Cockroaches Are in Nebraska?
Nebraska is home to a few different types of cockroaches. The most common ones are:
American Cockroach: This big guy can grow up to 2 inches long and is reddish-brown with a yellowish edge around its body. While they’re more common in warmer climates, you might spot them in Nebraska, particularly in larger buildings and basements.
German Cockroach: By far the most common cockroach in homes, the German cockroach is smaller (about 1/2 to 5/8 inches) and light brown with two dark stripes running down its back. They’re quick, sneaky, and known for reproducing fast—so if you spot one, there’s a good chance more are hiding out of sight.
Oriental Cockroach: These guys are black and typically found in cooler, damp areas like basements and crawl spaces. While they prefer moisture, they’re hardy and can survive a variety of conditions.
Why Are Cockroaches in Nebraska?
Like many pests, cockroaches are attracted to places that provide food, warmth, and moisture. That means kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and any area where there might be crumbs, spills, or water leaks are prime real estate for these unwelcome visitors. While you might not find cockroaches roaming around outside in the freezing Nebraska winter, they can survive indoors year-round if the conditions are right.
Health Risks of Cockroaches
Beyond the “yuck” factor, cockroaches can pose health risks. They’re known to carry bacteria and other pathogens, which they pick up while scavenging in trash and other unsanitary areas. When they crawl around your home, they can spread these germs to food and surfaces, potentially causing foodborne illnesses or infections. Cockroaches can also trigger allergies and asthma, especially in children, due to the proteins in their saliva, waste, and shed skin.
How to Keep Cockroaches Out of Your Home
If you’ve ever had a run-in with a cockroach, you know they can be tough to deal with. But don’t worry—there are things you can do to keep them from moving in permanently. Here are some tips:
Cleanliness is Key: Cockroaches love crumbs, grease, and food scraps, so keep your kitchen clean. Wipe down surfaces, vacuum often, and make sure to store food in sealed containers.
Fix Leaks: Cockroaches are attracted to moisture, so fix any plumbing leaks and keep your home dry. This will discourage them from sticking around.
Seal Up Cracks and Gaps: Cockroaches are great at sneaking into your home through small cracks and gaps. Seal up any openings around windows, doors, and pipes to make it harder for them to get in.
Use Traps or Insecticides: If you do spot a cockroach or two, use traps to catch them and keep an eye out for more. If it’s a bigger problem, insecticides or professional pest control services might be necessary.
When to Call in the Pros
If you’re seeing more cockroaches than you’re comfortable with—or if you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn infestation—it might be time to call in a pest control expert. These professionals know how to track down the hidden spots where cockroaches breed and can offer the best solutions for getting rid of them.
Final Thoughts
While cockroaches in Nebraska aren’t exactly the worst thing you’ll encounter, they’re certainly not welcome guests. With the right precautions and a little know-how, you can keep them at bay and make sure they stay far away from your home. Cleanliness, sealing up cracks, and being proactive are your best defense. If you’re dealing with a bad infestation, don’t hesitate to reach out to the pest control pros near you for help.
