Key Takeaways

• Cockroaches leave behind droppings, smear marks, and shed skin in hidden areas.
• A musty odour and sudden allergies can indicate the presence of these pests.
• Prompt action and professional pest control are essential for managing infestations.

1. You Spot Cockroach Droppings And Smears

One of the first signs of a cockroach infestation is the presence of droppings. These pests leave behind small, dark droppings that resemble coffee grounds or black pepper. Larger species of cockroaches may produce cylindrical droppings with ridges along the sides.

You’ll typically find droppings in areas where cockroaches feed or hide, such as:

• Kitchen cupboards
• Behind or beneath appliances like stoves and refrigerators
• Dark corners, baseboards, and pantries

In addition to droppings, cockroaches leave smear marks on walls and surfaces, particularly in damp or humid environments. These smears result from their bodies dragging through water or leftover food stains.

Prevention Tip: Inspect dark, undisturbed spaces routinely for droppings and smears. Regular cleaning can help you identify these signs sooner.

2. You Start Noticing Unpleasant Odours

Cockroaches release a musty odour that becomes stronger as the infestation worsens. This odour comes from the pheromones they produce to communicate with one another and the decomposition of dead cockroaches.

The smell is often described as oily, musty, or stale and is most noticeable near:

• Areas where cockroaches are hiding or breeding
• Food storage areas where crumbs, spills, or dirty dishes are present
• Damp, warm environments such as bathrooms and basements

If you’ve thoroughly cleaned your home and the smell persists, it’s a strong indicator of cockroach activity.

3. You Develop New Allergies

Cockroach infestations can have serious health consequences, particularly for those with pre-existing allergies or asthma. The allergens they produce are found in their saliva, droppings, and shed skin. Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing and nasal congestion
• Watery, itchy eyes
• Skin rashes
• Worsening asthma symptoms

Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable to these allergens. Even if the cockroaches are not visible, these symptoms could indicate their presence in hidden areas.

Did You Know? Cockroach allergens are a leading cause of indoor allergy symptoms, particularly in urban environments.

4. You Notice Shed Skin

Cockroaches shed their exoskeleton multiple times as they grow. These discarded skins are often left behind in the dark, hidden areas where they hide during the day. Places to check for shed skins include:

• Under sinks and inside kitchen cabinets
• Behind large appliances like washers and refrigerators
• In basements or storage areas

In addition to shed skins, you might also find egg cases, known as oothecae, which cockroaches leave behind before the eggs hatch. These are small, bean-shaped, and often tucked into cracks and crevices.

Pro Tip: Use a flashlight to inspect cracks, crevices, and other tight spaces where cockroaches and their eggs may be hiding.

What To Do If You Spot Signs Of A Cockroach Infestation

Detecting a cockroach infestation can be unsettling, but taking immediate action can prevent the problem from escalating. Here’s what you should do if you spot any signs:

Remove Sources Of Food And Water

Cockroaches are drawn to accessible food and moisture. Eliminating these sources can make your home less appealing to them. Follow these steps:

• Clean thoroughly: Wipe up food stains, crumbs, and spills immediately.
• Seal food: Store items like cereal, flour, and snacks in airtight containers.
• Empty garbage bins: Dispose of trash regularly and keep bins clean and sealed.
• Fix leaks: Repair any dripping faucets or leaking pipes to cut off water sources.

Even small crumbs or grease splatters on countertops can sustain cockroaches for days. Maintaining a clean and dry environment is critical to keeping them at bay.

Put Out Bait Stations In Dark Areas

Bait stations can help control cockroach populations by attracting them to consume poison, which they then spread to the rest of the colony. Key areas to place bait stations include:

• Behind kitchen appliances
• Inside cabinets and pantries
• Under sinks and in bathroom corners

While bait stations can provide temporary relief, they should not be relied on as a standalone solution. Cockroach infestations are often more extensive than they appear. For best results, consult a professional pest control expert to assess the situation and recommend a comprehensive treatment plan.

Call A Cockroach Exterminator

When dealing with a cockroach infestation, professional help is often the most effective solution. A licensed cockroach exterminator in Winnipeg can:

• Identify the extent of the infestation
• Use safe and effective treatments tailored to your home
• Provide long-term solutions to prevent re-infestation

DIY methods may provide temporary relief but they rarely address the root cause. Cockroaches reproduce quickly, and without proper treatment, the infestation can grow rapidly.

Don’t let cockroaches take over your home. Call a trusted pest control expert today to reclaim your space and protect your family.

A1 Pest Solutions Inc.

Cockroaches In Hot Weather

Cockroaches thrive in warm, humid environments, which is why summer often sees an increase in their activity. As temperatures rise, cockroaches become more active, seeking out food, water, and shelter. In Manitoba, the summer heat, combined with humidity, provides the perfect conditions for cockroaches to breed and spread. These pests are particularly drawn to areas where moisture is present, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and damp areas around the home.

One of the reasons cockroaches are more noticeable in summer is their increased mobility. As the weather warms up, they move faster, scurrying across floors, walls, and even ceilings. Homeowners may notice more cockroach activity near pet food bowls, garbage cans, and dirty dishes left out overnight. These pests are opportunistic and will readily invade spaces where food sources are easily accessible.

Cockroaches In Cold Weather

When the weather cools down in Manitoba, cockroaches shift their behaviour. They are not particularly cold-tolerant, and as winter approaches, they seek out warm, sheltered areas to survive. This is why homeowners may still experience cockroach infestations during the colder months; these pests will make their way indoors, searching for warmth and food sources. While you might not see cockroaches as often in the winter, they can still be present, lurking in hidden spaces like walls, attics, and/or basements.

Cockroaches are known for their ability to adapt to cold weather by slowing their metabolism and conserving energy. However, they remain a year-round threat, especially in homes that provide easy access to food, water, and shelter. Cockroach infestations can persist through winter if preventative measures aren’t taken, such as sealing cracks, eliminating food sources, and keeping homes clean.

How Cockroaches Behave In Manitoba's Climate

Manitoba's extreme seasonal changes play a significant role in how cockroaches behave throughout the year. During the summer months, cockroaches are most active, often entering homes through cracks, gaps in windows and doors, or utility openings. They are drawn to the warmth and moisture inside homes, where they can find food and shelter. If homeowners aren't diligent about removing food sources, such as pet food or crumbs, cockroach infestations can quickly escalate.

In winter, the focus for cockroaches shifts to survival. Manitoba’s freezing temperatures force these pests to seek refuge indoors, where they can survive on minimal resources. While cockroaches are less likely to breed in cold weather, they can still infest homes and become a persistent nuisance. Maintaining cleanliness, fixing leaks, and ensuring garbage cans are sealed can help reduce the risk of a cockroach infestation during winter.

Tips For Preventing Cockroach Infestations

Whether it's summer or winter in Manitoba, preventing cockroach infestations requires diligence. Here are some tips to keep your home cockroach-free year-round:

1. Keep Food Sealed: Cockroaches are attracted to food sources. Store food in airtight containers and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
2. Clean Regularly: Dirty dishes, crumbs, and spills should be cleaned up immediately to avoid attracting cockroaches.
3. Seal Entry Points: Cockroaches can enter homes through small cracks and gaps. Inspect your home and seal any openings around doors, windows, and utility lines.
4. Take Out the Trash: Cockroaches are often drawn to garbage cans. Make sure trash is disposed of regularly and keep garbage cans sealed.
5. Fix Leaks: Cockroaches thrive in damp areas. Repair any leaks or plumbing issues to reduce moisture around the home.
6. Eliminate Hiding Places: Keep clutter to a minimum, as cockroaches often hide in piles of papers, cardboard, or other materials.

By following these preventative measures, homeowners can significantly reduce the likelihood of a cockroach infestation, regardless of the season.

Have A Cockroach Problem You Need Dealt With?

If you're facing a cockroach infestation in Manitoba, professional pest control services are the best way to ensure the problem is handled quickly and effectively. Cockroaches are tough to eliminate on your own due to their ability to hide in hard-to-reach places and their resilience against DIY methods. Whether it's the heat of summer or the cold of winter, these pests remain a persistent issue, and it's important to act fast to prevent them from spreading.

At A1 Pest Solutions, we specialize in providing expert services to tackle cockroach infestations. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of Manitoba’s climate and offers customized solutions to keep your home pest-free. Whether you need advice, preventative measures, or a thorough inspection and treatment, we’re here to help.

If you're looking for a reliable cockroach exterminator in Winnipeg, contact us today! Let us help you take control of your home and eliminate those unwelcome pests for good.