Pest Control Service - Cockroaches
||Advice To Householders About Cockroaches
There are two types of cockroach commonly found in this country. They are quite large insects, which
can be distinguished by their size and colour.
The Oriental cockroach is the larger of the two types in the adult form. They are dark brown in colour and 20-24 mm long.
The German cockroach is sometimes known as the steam fly. They are yellowish brown in colour, with two dark marks on their thorax, and 10-15 mm long.
Both types have whip-like antennae.
Distribution & Habitat
Cockroaches can be found infesting all types of buildings from blocks of flats to industrial premises, and particularly kitchen areas.
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.
Significance
Cockroaches will feed on almost anything ranging from faecal matter to food intended for human consumption. As a result cockroaches have been found to carry disease-causing bacteria on their bodies. These bacteria are then transferred onto anything the cockroach touches.
Life Cycle
The female Oriental cockroach can produce up to five egg capsules. These capsules are 12mm in length and each contain up to sixteen eggs, which will hatch between six and twelve weeks later.
The German cockroach can produce four to eight capsules at monthly intervals. The 6mm long egg capsules are smaller than the Oriental cockroach, but contain up to thirty eggs.
Control Methods
Treatment of cockroaches is complex and professional help is needed to deal with a cockroach infestation.
Treatment
Ashfield District Council provides a free of charge service for the treatment of cockroaches at domestic premises.
If you think that you may have a problem, please contact us immediately.
You will be advised fully of any costs involved prior to treatment being undertaken.

