All cockroaches start as eggs and then develop into nymphs. During the nymph stage, they go through different stages of development, called instars, as they mature into adults.
With all three present in sufficient quantity, cockroaches grow and reproduce with mated females producing oothecae – pillow-shaped egg capsules each containing up to 48 eggs. Tiny, wingless nymphs hatch from their eggs and gradually grow into adult roaches.
Spread of Eggs
The number one reason to not squash a cockroach is to prevent spreading cockroach eggs. Some cockroach species, such as the German cockroach (common species here in the UK) carry their egg cases (ootheca) on their body until just before they hatch.
Killing roaches can actually spread more germs around your home. Roaches carry bacteria, and when you squash one, you risk spreading whatever germs it was carrying all over the surface. The bacteria or viruses that were on the roach's legs and body can contaminate countertops, floors, and even your hands.
Even a clean house can attract roaches due to several factors: Food Sources: Roaches are attracted to food, including crumbs, spills, and pet food. Even small remnants can draw them in. Water Sources: Roaches need water to survive. Leaks, standing water, or even high humidity can provide the moisture they seek.
Scavenger Behaviour: Cockroaches are scavengers and opportunistic feeders. The scent of a dead cockroach can attract others looking for food. This scavenger instinct is a key survival trait for cockroaches, making them come out of hiding to investigate potential food sources, even if it's one of their own.
A cockroach infestation can swiftly escalate into a significant health and hygiene crisis. These unwelcome pests carry bacteria, trigger allergies, and cause damage that no homeowner should ever ignore. Their rapid reproduction means a small problem can quickly spiral out of control.
Being nocturnal creatures, cockroaches are more likely to bite you at night - especially while you are sleeping. However, they do appear in the daytime, when this happens, it could mean your premise is undergoing a heavy cockroach infestation where they are in need of food supplies.
Center of gravity: Cockroaches have a high center of gravity and a rounded back, which makes them prone to tipping over. Once a cockroach is upside down, it struggles to gain traction on flat surfaces, making it hard to flip back over.
If you touch a cockroach, you risk becoming infected with some serious diseases, including bacteria that cause dysentery. According to the World Health Organization, cockroaches commonly transmit these diseases to humans: Salmonellosis.
Citronella Oil
Its strong scent is known to deter roaches and other insects like mosquitoes and gnats. Homeowners can either directly apply the oil to areas frequented by roaches for the most effective application or dilute it with water to create a DIY repellent spray.
How Long Do Cockroaches Live? Common pest cockroaches, depending on the species and sex, may live anywhere from a month to over a year. For example, German cockroaches live for about 100 days, but female German cockroaches may live for more than 200 days, and American cockroaches can survive for up to a year.
Yes, cockroaches can crawl into beds. They are attracted to warmth, moisture, and food sources, which may lead them to seek shelter in and around sleeping areas. To prevent this, ensure your bedroom is clean and free of food debris. Also, consider using a bed bug-proof mattress protector and pillow covers.
Typically, cockroaches stay away following a treatment or service, but sometimes these pests may return with a vengeance! Keep reading to learn more about recuring cockroach infestations and what you can do to prevent these pests from returning.
Leaving the light on doesn't deter cockroaches effectively because they can navigate in low-light conditions. While they're mostly active at night, they may still come out in search of food or water. During the day, cockroaches hide in dark areas not directly exposed to light.
These organisms are then thrown out when the cockroach leaves its droppings around your house. Hence, stepping on and crushing a cockroach using your foot is not a good idea, as it can cause its bacteria-carrying gut juices to splash around your floor.
Your Best Bet for Deterring Cockroaches is a Clean Home
Take that away from them and their days are numbered, as long as you maintain it. Cockroaches can live up to three months without food, so they hide in dark corners of a property while they wait to go hunting at night.
Peppermint oil, cedarwood oil, and cypress oil are essential oils that effectively keep cockroaches at bay. Additionally, these insects hate the smell of crushed bay leaves and steer clear of coffee grounds. If you want to try a natural way to kill them, combine powdered sugar and boric acid.
According to the body, which classes cockroaches as “unhygienic scavengers in human settlements,” squashing them can spread bacteria into the environment that can lead to asthma, allergies, and illnesses.
Because roaches are so durable and can adapt to pretty much any situation, they can be nearly impossible to remove on your own. The best way to get rid of cockroaches is by contacting a pest control technician.
What smells are cockroaches afraid of? Cockroaches are repelled by the smells of peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, citronella, and cedarwood oils. These scents can be used as natural deterrents to keep them away from your home.
American cockroach
Their egg capsules are roughly ⅓” long and are dark reddish or blackish brown in color. Each ootheca holds about 16 eggs.
What causes roaches in houses and apartments? What attracts roaches to a clean house primarily consists of their basic needs: food, water, and shelter, although they are usually brought into houses and apartments on other items, such as luggage or clothing.