What is a cockroach?
There are two types of cockroach commonly found in this country - the Oriental Cockroach and the German Cockroach. Cockroaches are quite large insects which can be distinguished by their size and colour.
The Oriental Cockroach is the larger of the two types in adult form.
They are dark brown or black in colour and 20-24mm long with long whip-like antennae.
What should I know?
The German cockroach, sometimes known as the Steam Fly, are yellowish brown in colour with two dark marks on their thorax.
Adults are 10-15mm long, also with whip-like antennae. Cockroaches can be found infesting all types of buildings from blocks of flats to industrial premises.
They are nocturnal and spend the day hiding in cracks and crevices around such areas as sinks, drains, cookers, skirting boards, service ducts and fridge motor compartments.
Cockroaches will feed on almost anything, from faecal matter to food intended for human consumption. Cockroaches have been found to carry diseases causing bacteria on their bodies. These bacteria are then transferred onto anything the cockroach touches.
How do they live?
The female Oriental Cockroach can produce up to five egg capsules. These capsules are 12mm long and each contain up to 16 eggs, they hatch 6 to 12 weeks later.
The German Cockroach can produce four to eight egg capsules at monthly intervals. The egg capsules are smaller than the Oriental Cockroach - 6mm long, but contain up to 30 eggs.
What should I do?
Professional help is needed to deal with a cockroach infestation, to find help use www.yell.co.uk to locate a company near you.
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