Australian cockroaches (Periplaneta australasiae) are a common pest in Ipswich and Brisbane’s Western suburbs, known for their large size and preference for warm, humid environments. While primarily outdoor insects, they can invade homes and businesses, leading to potential health risks and discomfort. This guide will explore everything you need to know about Australian cockroaches, including their identification, behaviour, health risks, and the most effective treatment options available at Jets Pest Control.
What Are Australian Cockroaches?
Australian cockroaches are large, reddish-brown insects that can grow up to 35 mm long. They are easily recognised by the distinctive yellow bands on the outer edges of their wings. Despite their name, Australian cockroaches are not native to Australia but have become widespread in tropical and subtropical regions, including Ipswich.
Why Are Australian Cockroaches So Difficult to Control?
Australian cockroaches are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments. They prefer to live outdoors in warm, humid areas such as gardens, mulch, and compost piles. However, they will readily enter homes and other buildings for food and moisture, especially during heavy rainfall or extreme heat. Their ability to fly and preference for high, inaccessible places like roof voids make them particularly challenging to control.
Health Risks Associated with Australian Cockroaches
Australian cockroaches are more than just a nuisance—they can pose significant health risks. They are known carriers of Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus, which can contaminate food and food preparation surfaces, leading to foodborne illnesses. Additionally, their droppings, shed skin, and saliva can trigger allergic reactions and exacerbate asthma symptoms, particularly in sensitive individuals.
Our Australian Cockroach Treatment Process
At Jets Pest Control, we offer a comprehensive treatment process to manage Australian cockroach infestations effectively. Our approach includes using residual insecticides (synthetic pyrethroids) in liquid and dust forms, applied to critical areas around your home.
1. Inspection
We begin with a thorough inspection of your property to identify areas of cockroach activity, focusing on outdoor environments such as gardens and compost areas, as well as indoor locations like kitchens, bathrooms, and roof voids.
2. Residual Insecticides
We apply residual insecticides to the external house exterior, internal skirting boards, roof voids, wall cavities, cracks, and crevices. These insecticides are not repellents; they require the cockroaches to crawl through the treated areas for a lethal dose. Although the cockroaches will not die instantly, death is certain after exposure.
3. Dusting
In addition to liquid insecticides, we use dusting powders in roof voids, wall cavities, and other hard-to-reach areas. This ensures that cockroaches come into contact with the insecticide as they move through these spaces.
4. Environmental Considerations
External treatments are fully adequate for 12 weeks, after which they deteriorate due to UV exposure and weather conditions. Internal treatments remain effective for 6 to 9 months but may diminish due to cleaning chemicals.
Pricing and Warranties
Regular Pest Control Service: $249 (including GST)
Warranty: Three-month warranty on external treatments and a six-month warranty on internal treatments for crawling insects.
Please Note: There is a legal limit on how frequently some insecticides can be applied yearly to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Australian Cockroaches
1. How do Australian cockroaches enter homes?
Australian cockroaches typically enter homes through open doors, windows, and cracks in the foundation. They may also enter through roof voids and vents, especially if they seek shelter from extreme weather conditions.
2. What attracts Australian cockroaches to my home?
These cockroaches are attracted to moisture, warmth, and food sources. Poor sanitation, standing water, and food crumbs can create ideal conditions for an infestation.
3. Are Australian cockroaches harmful to my health?
Yes, they can spread harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause food poisoning. Their droppings can also trigger allergies and asthma.
4. Can Australian cockroaches fly?
Australian cockroaches have wings and strong fliers, especially in warm conditions. However, they are more likely to crawl when searching for food and shelter.
5. How does Jets Pest Control treat Australian cockroach infestations?
We use a combination of residual insecticides and dusting powders in critical areas around your home. Our treatments are designed to ensure cockroaches come into contact with the insecticides, leading to their eventual death.
6. How long does the treatment last?
External treatments are effective for up to 12 weeks, while internal treatments can last 6 to 9 months. The effectiveness of these treatments diminishes over time due to environmental factors like UV light and cleaning chemicals.
7. Will the treatment keep cockroaches away?
The treatment is not a repellent. Cockroaches must crawl through the treated areas to receive a lethal dose. Increased activity may be observed as the cockroaches are affected by the treatment.
8. Why is there increased cockroach activity after rainfall?
Australian cockroaches prefer outdoor environments, but heavy rainfall can drive them indoors for shelter. Their flight capabilities also allow them to bypass some treated areas temporarily.
9. Do you offer a warranty on Australian cockroach treatments?
Yes, we offer a three-month warranty on external treatments and a six-month warranty on internal treatments for crawling insects.
10. What should I do if I see cockroaches after treatment?
Some activity is expected after treatment as insecticides affect the cockroaches. However, if the problem continues, please get in touch with us for a follow-up service.
Conclusion
Australian cockroaches are resilient and challenging but can be effectively controlled with the right treatment plan. At Jets Pest Control, we provide expert services tailored to the unique challenges of Australian cockroach infestations in Ipswich and Brisbane’s western suburbs. Our treatments are designed to be thorough and effective, ensuring long-term results.
Ready to eliminate Australian cockroaches from your home? Contact Jets Pest Control today for professional, reliable service. Call us at 1300 566 569 or request a booking online.
