There are two kinds of cockroaches native to Kansas and they are the German cockroach and the American cockroach. With their ability to thrive on very little, these roaches have become can be a major annoyance in Kansas homes and commercial facilities including restaurants and food service businesses, hospitals, warehouses, and offices.
The German cockroach is most commonly found in homes in Kansas City, Wichita and Topeka as well as elsewhere in Kansas. It is approximately ½ inch long, light brown or tan and is identified by two long stripes on its back. They prefer locations that offer warmth, humidity, food, water and harborage such as kitchens and bathrooms. This insect is most commonly found near plumbing fixtures, under sinks, hiding in cracks and crevices in cupboards and under drawers.
The American cockroach is occasionally found in Kansas area homes although it is more commonly found in restaurants, grocery stores and places where food is prepared. It is larger than the German cockroach, measuring 1 ½ to 2 inches in length, reddish brown in color and has long wings that cover its midsection. It breeds in sewer systems and in underground utility networks and may even gain entry into structures through these areas.
So they live in Kansas but why does my property have a roach problem?
Although roaches can grow fairly large, they have the ability to squeeze through openings as thin as one-sixteenth of an inch and can often enter residential and commercial structures by crawling through tiny gaps around doors, pipes and other open spaces. They may even be introduced unknowingly inside bags, cardboard boxes and other items that pass through the door. Contrary to popular belief, they aren’t simply attracted to messy households, although that will extend their stay. They simply are in search of food, water and warmth…that cake on the counter is just bonus for them.