American cockroaches are the urban pest that generates the most complaints and service calls during the summer months. Fueled by global warming, they easily spread wherever they can, especially through sewer grates, false ceilings, cracks, and chimneys. Any dark, warm, and somewhat humid place is the perfect hiding spot for them.
The American cockroach is the largest in Spain, distinguished by its reddish colour. They live for approximately 10 to 15 months, depending on whether they are male or female. The females seek out rough surfaces to deposit their oothecae, which contain between 14 to 16 eggs. These eggs normally hatch in an average of 50 days, with hatching occurring earlier in the summer—hence their rapid proliferation from June to September.
The photos above show oothecae laid near a drainpipe in a flat's false ceiling, and another in rock wool.
Naturally, eradicating this type of pest isn't easy, as simple fumigation wouldn't be enough. The oothecae are airtight and would hatch even after being fumigated.
American cockroaches live almost entirely in the sewers, then get into homes via wastewater pipes or, in the case of flats, through leaky downpipes or unsealed sink pipes.
Cockroaches bring problems, not just because of the phobia many people have of them. They can contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria and other pathogens. Their presence can also trigger allergies and asthma in sensitive people.
Given how resistant they are to non-professional insecticides, it's a good idea to call a pest control company. They can help you eradicate the problem at its source, using professional biocides while also being environmentally friendly.
From Control de Plagas Levante, located on the Murcian coast, we are at your disposal to help you get rid of this bothersome pest.
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