Cockroaches can be found all over the world. In Canada, the most common species by far is the German cockroach. They can live outside in the wild, or they can infest any type of building. They are one of the most highly adaptable species on the planet and most of the time require the help of a cockroach exterminator..

Cockroaches can live anywhere they can find enough food, water and heat. They are generally nocturnal, although you might see them during the day as well – especially if the infestation is large.

During the day, they prefer to hide anywhere they can feel safe from harm. If they are in a home, they will normally dwell in cupboards, appliances, plumbing or crawl spaces. They will scatter quickly if their hiding spots are disturbed.

While cockroaches often appear in large numbers, they are not social insects like bees or ants. Each female cockroach is capable of reproducing, often laying hundreds of eggs in a lifetime.

Cockroaches can live up to a year. They can also go up to a month without food, and up to two weeks without water which makes the cockroach control process not easy. Most cockroaches are extremely hardy, and can even live up to a week without their head!

Cockroaches start off their life as eggs, which females lay in clusters of up to 50 in a sac called an ootheca. They normally set up a nest in a sheltered area, although some types of cockroaches can carry around the ootheca until it hatches.

The eggs incubate for about 2-3 months, then young wingless cockroaches called nymphs emerge. As the cockroach grows, it sheds its skin (also known as molting) and keeps doing so over the course of its lifetime.

Cockroaches often enter homes and buildings looking for warmth and shelter. Areas that also provide nearby access to food and water are ideal candidates for cockroaches to live in. Basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and greenhouses are common areas that attract cockroaches.

Cockroaches are notorious for being able to feed off almost anything, including decaying plant matter, leather, glue, fabric, soap and even toothpaste. They will also be attracted to common food items, especially those stored in pantries. They also love sugary or starchy foods.

Contrary to popular belief, cockroaches extermination experts say they aren’t necessarily attracted to unsanitary spaces. However, leaving crumbs and food waste around your space can aggravate a cockroach infestation.

Cockroaches normally gain access to your home in one of two ways: by entering from outside through cracks and openings in walls, floors, and plumbing, or by being carried in with groceries, containers or other items.

Ensure your home’s doors and windows are properly sealed and all cracks or openings are repaired. While cockroaches can eat almost anything, you can help minimize an infestation by keeping your space free of crumbs, decaying food, and debris. Don’t let dirty dishes pile up, take out the trash regularly, and clean up spills and dropped food promptly.

Based on different cockroach control techniques, you can take steps to reduce moisture in your home to make it less desirable for cockroaches. Install de-humidifiers, fix leaky faucets and pipes, and ensure all your cupboards are dry.

If you notice cockroaches in your home – don’t panic! Carry out some basic steps to ensure your home is clean, dry, and sealed from outside entry. It’s best to call in an expert to properly get rid of the cockroaches as soon as possible.

Cockroaches are notoriously difficult to remove without professional help. They can pose a health hazard to you and your family if left unchecked – they can contaminate food by spreading bacteria, and can aggravate asthma.

You can reduce a cockroach population with pesticides or traps, but their eggs will be protected and any adults that you eliminated will soon be replaced. Only a professional cockroach exterminator will get rid of the problem.

If you’re dealing with a cockroach infestation, give us a call. We’ll identify the extent of the infestation and thoroughly remove it.