10 interesting facts about cockroaches

A cockroach infestation is the last thing any homeowner or business owner wants on their property. They spread a whole heap of germs and bacteria and are just pests to deal with! However, cockroaches are very interesting little insects (when they’re not in your home!). Here are 10 interesting facts about cockroaches:

1. Cockroaches aggravate asthma

Different studies have proven that cockroaches can indeed trigger asthma as well as some other allergies. Cockroaches contain a specific protein that is known to be an allergen for many people. This exact protein is what triggers asthma attacks.

2. Cockroaches can survive for a week without their head

Amazing isn’t it!? Cockroaches have an open circulatory system and they also breathe through tiny holes throughout their body segments which means they don’t rely on their head or mouth to really breathe. The only reason the cockroach dies is that it dies from thirst!

3. Cockroaches are very fast

This might be an obvious one because we all know how quick they are especially when you want to get rid of one! Cockroaches are so quick that they can run up to speeds of 1.5 meters per second. They are little lightning-fast insects!

4. Cockroaches enjoy alcohol

Cockroaches are dawn to specific alcohol beverages, with their favourite being beer! They are attracted to the sugar and hops component in the alcoholic drink.

5. Cockroaches can live without food for a whole month

Cockroaches are a cold-blooded insect which allows them to go for an entire month with no food! Water is key for their survival. They can only go one week without water before they will die. This is why you’ll usually find cockroaches in high-moisture or humid areas around your home.

6. Cockroaches can’t fly

Although they do have wings, they can’t really fly. They are able to flutter and glide for short distances but can’t actually fly around!

7. A baby cockroach becomes an adult in 36 days

A cockroach that has been newly hatched only takes about 36 days to become an adult. They also reproduce very fast! If you’re finding a whole lot of cockroaches in your home, it’s important to get rid of them quickly as a new batch of cockroaches may be reproduced in your home.

8. Cockroaches can squeeze in really little gaps

Cockroaches have amazing exoskeletons which allow them to squeeze into really tiny gaps and cracks! They are able to flatten their very flexible exoskeleton and move their legs to the side to fit into places.

9. Cockroaches are really old

Cockroaches have been around since...who even knows! Evidence suggests that cockroaches have been around for a very long time! Although their lifespan is approximately only one year, they reproduce very quickly.

10. There are over 4,000 different cockroach species

There is over a whopping 4,000 different kinds of cockroach species all around the world. Although the German cockroach is the most common, there are so many different types that you could possibly come across!

Do you have a cockroach infestation?

If you have a cockroach infestation in your home or business, it’s very important to call professionals for help. Cockroaches reproduce very quickly and you may have another batch of cockroaches being born on your property.