Oriental Cockroaches

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What do Oriental cockroaches look like?

Oriental cockroaches are 1 to 1 1/4 inches long, shiny brown to black color. Females have small, functionless wing pads. Males have wings that cover 3/4 of their abdomen, but they are also unable to fly. Young look similar to adult forms.

Life cycle of Oriental roaches

Gradual metamorphosis

Females produce eggs carried in an egg case that is attached to their abdomen. After two days of carrying the case, the female will leave it in a hidden area near a food source. The cases (oothecae) are 3/8 inch long, hold about 16 eggs and are brown. Young cockroaches hatch from the case in 6-8 weeks and will be mature in 6-12 months. The young have the same habits as the adult forms. Adults live up to 1 year during which females produce 150 young.

Habits of Oriental cockroaches

• Diet: Plants and animals, decaying organic matter, water, prefer starch
• Activity: Nocturnal
• Preferred Climate: Cool, moist areas
• Defense: Speed
• Cautions: Secrete an odorous fluid, spread disease
• Home Invasion: Mainly found outdoors, but enter homes through sewer lines, air ducts, and other openings. Often called “waterbugs.”

Are Oriental cockroaches dangerous?

A cockroach bite is not something that should be feared because these insects are more likely to run and hide than they are to bite.

That said, they are a threat to health because they stop by sewers, dumpsters and trash cans and garbage disposals (along with other suspect areas) before making their way into homes and businesses. Diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and allergic reactions can be induced by the dangerous bacteria roaches carry on their legs. Additionally, their feces and shed skins can trigger serious asthma attacks. 

Where do Oriental cockroaches live?

Oriental cockroaches are often found in dark, damp, cool areas such as under sinks, under washing machines, and in damp basements and floor drains. Outdoors, these roaches can be found in water valves and around foundations and crawl spaces. 

Helpful hints for Oriental cockroaches

To keep Oriental roaches and other pests out of your home, try implementing these pest prevention tips:

• Eliminate excessive moisture in or near the home
• Implement and maintain thorough sanitation practices
• Hire a pest control company that specializes in getting rid of roaches

Interesting facts about Oriental cockroaches

Fossil evidence shows that cockroaches have been on earth for over 300 million years.