In general, cockroaches are tropical and live outdoors. However, 25 species are found in close association with humans. Of these, the Oriental cockroach is of great public importance. Like other cockroach species, Oriental cockroaches undergo gradual metamorphosis with three distinct stages, including egg, nymph and adult. The female produces an egg capsule, or ootheca, that is blackish-brown in colour. Approximately 16 eggs are laid in the egg capsule, arranged in two rows of eight eggs each. An average of at least 14 eggs can hatch per egg capsule. The female may deposit up to 18 egg capsules, with an average of eight per female. Generally, egg capsules are deposited in places where food is readily available. Eggs hatch in about two months. Newly emerged nymphs are very light, but later change to a reddish- to blackish-brown colour. Adults are glossy, with a dark reddish- to blackish-brown colour. The adult females may live from 34 to 181 days.
What do cockroaches eat and where do they live?
Oriental roaches are omnivorous, but they prefer to feed on starchy foods. They are less wary and more sluggish than other cockroaches. Their ideal habitat temperatures range from about 68 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They are typically found in dark, damp basements, areas between soil and the foundation, underneath pavements, in sewer pipes, floor drains and any other cool, moist place.
What harm can they do?
Oriental cockroaches are important pests in residences, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, cruise ships, warehouses and many other places where sufficient food and water are available. They are of public health importance because they can mechanically transmit pathogenic organisms such as salmonella, and are a source of powerful allergens.
How do you get rid of them?
Insect identification, thorough inspection and assessment of the infestation, is the key to successfully managing Oriental cockroaches both indoors and outdoors. The cockroach population can be substantially reduced non-chemically by denying food and water, maintaining proper sanitation, altering the harbourage and installing sticky traps. Chemically, cockroaches can be treated by using appropriately labelled products applied by professionals. If you would like to arrange a treatment please telephone The Council will provide a treatment using professional standard insecticide but there is a charge. Contact Customer Services 01325 388799 if you want this service.