Cockroaches

Facts, Identification & Control

Cockroach Appearance

Cockroaches can measure over 50 mm. (2 in.) in length, with tropical species tending to be larger than those found in other climates. Cockroaches have six legs, two antennae and some have wings. However, most winged cockroaches are not particularly adept at flying.

Cockroach Facts

Cockroaches belong to Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Arthropoda, Class Insecta and Order Blattaria. Some species invade human dwellings and are considered pests. Others are beneficial to the environment as important recyclers of decaying organic material. Cockroaches can be carriers of various diseases because they are commonly found near waste deposits or in the kitchen, where food is present. Restaurants may also experience cockroach infestations.

Cockroaches emit unpleasant odors and may also produce sound. The Madagascar hissing cockroach is the most famous of these vocal cockroaches, although more common species may produce quieter clicking or chirping noises.

Cockroaches can wreak havoc on your home. To win the war in cockroach control, here is what you should know:

Entry

Cockroaches can enter your home in a lot of different ways, from the outside through cracks and crevices, vents, sewer and drain pipes. We even bring them in, on products like grocery bags, boxes, purses and on our person without noticing!
Ideal environment.

Your home is an ideal breeding ground for certain pest species of cockroaches. With plenty of food, warmth, water and nesting sites, they can remain active all year round.

Reproduction

Cockroaches reproduce quickly. For every one you see there can be a lot of, a lot of more taking cover and multiplying behind your walls.

Evasiveness

Because cockroaches typically are nocturnal, if you’ve seen one, you probably haven’t seen them all. The few cockroaches you see by day could mean they were likely forced out by overcrowding; a possible sign of severe infestation.

Allergies/Asthma

The debris created by cast-off cockroach skins, dead bodies and droppings can aggravate allergies, especially in children and sensitive individuals.

Do-it-yourself ineffectiveness

Cockroaches are better at taking cover than you are at discovering them, and their eggs are easily shielded from a lot of local pesticides. Without special equipment, materials and know-how, cockroach control can be a losing battle.