Cockroaches

What do they look like?

The two main species of cockroach in Britain are the Oriental cockroach which is dark brown in colour and about 30mm long and the German cockroach which is light yellowish brown, and about 12mm long.  Both species bodies are divided into three sections and have long antennae protruding from the head. Immature stages look just like the adults on a smaller scale.  There may be a distinctive odour due to the presence of Cockroach infestation.

Where do they live?

Cockroaches are generally found indoors, in areas such as cellars, basements, kitchens, bakeries and heating ducts.  The Oriental cockroach can survive outdoors in Britain.  Cockroaches will often remain hidden during the day using cracks and crevices as harbourages.  This means that in most cases they will not be evident during the hours of daylight.  Most species can climb with ease, especially the German cockroach which can climb smooth vertical surfaces.

Cockroaches can survive for several months without food, but will not live for more than a few days without water.

Are they harmful?

Cockroaches are capable of carrying the organisms which cause food poisoning in humans and many other bacteria.  They will feed on almost anything, including refuse, faecal matter and food for human consumption.

Control

Hygiene

• A thorough cleansing of the area should take place prior to the insecticidal treatment, paying particular attention to removing food and water sources and hiding places.

Sticky Traps

• The use of sticky traps is not recommended for controlling cockroaches, but should be used for monitoring the extent of the infestation.

Insecticidal Control

• The success of the treatment depends on what insecticides are chosen, and how thorough the application is.  Many of the insects and their egg cases are hidden in cracks and crevices, so particular attention should be paid to these areas when applying insecticides.  To control an infestation, the insecticide used should persist until the egg cases have hatched.  This may require further applications.

Insecticidal Baits

• Baits can give continuous control of cockroaches over an extended period.  The cockroaches will feed on these baits picking up enough insecticide to kill them.

Safety

Care should always be taken when using insecticides and the manufacturer’s instructions should always be followed. 

Insecticides should not be placed where they may be accessible to children or animals.

Always wash hands immediately after using pesticides.

Please contact us if you require any assistance.

Warning: Use biocides safely.  Always read the label and product information before use.

E-mail:

environmental.health
@thanet.gov.uk 

Phone:

01843 577580

Fax:

01843 290906