PEST INDEX
PEST INDEX
About:
Cockroaches
“La cucharacha, la cucaracha…ya no puede caminar.” – Mexican folk tune
Well, one thing is for sure. The ‘cucarachas‘ won’t be walking anywhere after we are done with them!
While the song is amusing to many, it’s no laughing matter when they come parading into your home…no matter what language they are singing in!
Description
All cockroaches in Canada have long antennae and six long, spiny legs. Although they have wings, they are unable to fly. They are oval-shaped and have a flat body, providing these creatures with the perfect tools to hide in small cracks.
Cockroaches are commonly found in homes, buildings, warehouses, and other locations where food is stored. They are known disease vectors, so they are not good guests.
Time is of the essence
A cockroach infestation happens very rapidly, for two main reasons.
These creatures tend to communicate with each other. Therefore, once one has settled in, he signals to other roaches the location, resulting in an infestation.
The second reason is, these pests reproduce at an alarming rate. A female cockroach will lay about five capsules during her lifetime and EACH capsule can hold up to 40 eggs!
The Three Most Common Types Of Cockroaches Are:
American Cockroach: 30 mm in length
German and Asian Cockroaches: 15 mm in length
Oriental Cockroach: 25 mm in length
Each one of these insects can survive very long periods without food, water or even oxygen. It’s also important to know that cockroaches are very active in darkness and will flee from the light. This the opposite of the Asian cockroach that is actually attracted to light.
How to identify a cockroach infestation
Cockroaches are easily identifiable. They have a reddish-brown hue, and their length varies according to the species. Assume that, if you see one, there are many more lurking nearby.
Treating a cockroach infestation
The best way to control cockroach infestations is through cleanliness and care not to leave scraps or traces of food.
Make sure all your food is stored in airtight containers, dispose of your garbage and wash your dishes regularly.
A minor infestation can be controlled with insecticide powder application, gelatin traps and meticulous vacuuming.