The Facts about Cockroaches

Cockroaches are one of the pests almost guaranteed to give anyone the creepy crawlies and for good reason. Other than simply being pretty gross, cockroaches often cause disease or trigger allergies and can be a sure sign of a dirty environment.

But other than the fact that you want to smack the cockroach that appeared in your kitchen, what do you actually know about cockroaches? Learn the facts about these pests below.

7 Facts About Cockroaches You May Not Know

  1. Most roaches aren’t pests. As hard as it is to believe when you have a roach problem, only about 1% of cockroaches are pests to humans. Of the more than 4,000 species of roaches found around the world, only about 35-40 infest human homes. Most live outside.
  2. According to popular belief, cockroaches can survive a nuclear war. Even though cockroaches have been around since before the dinosaurs they may not be that durable, but cockroaches can survive for 1-2 weeks without its head. Cockroaches breathe through holes in their bodies, and will only die because they need a mouth to drink water. However, cockroaches can withstand far more radiation than humans.
  3. Diseases are spread and allergies are triggered by cockroaches. Roaches are a major contributor to allergies and asthma, especially in children. Studies have shown that 45% of children may be allergic to cockroaches, and many develop asthma from continued exposure. Additionally, cockroaches have been found to carry the pathogens that cause tuberculosis, cholera, leprosy, and more.
  4. BUT cockroaches might be used to fight disease in the future. We know that cockroaches are survivors, and scientists have shown that the brain matter and nerves of cockroaches can kill germs, including MRSA and E. coli with no harm to human cells. Scientists conducting this research believe the fact that roaches live in such filthy conditions has made their bodies adapt and create these antimicrobial particles.
  5. Cockroaches will eat just about anything. One of their only beneficial roles is to break down organic matter, and cockroaches will eat just about anything they can find, such as paper, glue, leather, and more. This is why thoroughly cleaning areas like the kitchen and bathroom are so important to keep cockroaches at bay. Crumbs, trash, and even hair offer an irresistible feast for cockroaches!
  6. Cockroaches are generally active at night. Most cockroaches prefer to stay hidden during the day. If you’re seeing cockroaches regularly during daylight, you probably have a significant population hidden somewhere in your home.
  7. The American cockroach is highly attracted to alcoholic beverages. The American cockroach is especially attracted to beer. Many people will often spot these roaches near their recycling bins, but you can help control populations by rinsing all glass and aluminum recycling before placing it outside.

Roach Infestations Often Require Professional Help

If you catch a roach problem early on, it’s often a problem you can solve with store-bought treatments and some persistence. However, if you’re being overrun with roaches, that may not be enough and you may need professional roach control services.

Contact Florida Pest Control today to schedule your appointment or for a free quote!

The Facts about Cockroaches Serving Central FL, Northern FL and the Panhandle

Gainesville | St. Augustine | Ocala | Crystal River | Palatka | Starke | Lake City | Jacksonville West | Jacksonville South

Tallahassee | Ft. Walton Beach | Pensacola | Panama City | Milton | Daytona Beach | Winter Haven | Orlando | Kissimmee | Tampa | Leesburg

Recommended Posts