Cockroaches are one of the last things you want to see in your house. These pests lurk in homes looking for food, water, and shelter. They can also contaminate the areas they walk. Though keeping your house cockroach-free is necessary, these creepy crawlies can be interesting. Check out six fun facts about cockroaches.
1. Cockroaches Can Live without Their Head
Cockroaches don’t breathe through their mouth. They have spiracles, which are tiny holes, located on each body segment where they intake oxygen. They can breathe without their head and can survive about a week. Their inability to drink water is actually what causes them to die.
2. Cockroaches Like to Rest
These pests are nocturnal and spend their days resting. They find a dark and sheltered place to remain inactive. At night, they emerge seeking a food source. This activity lasts for about four hours before they settle down again. Their inactivity can make it difficult to spot an infestation early.
3. Cockroaches Can Survive Cold Temperatures
Cockroaches prefer a warmer environment, but they can survive temperatures as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit. If temperatures fall below that, cockroaches won’t be able to survive. That’s when these pests seek a warm place to hide including your house. You’ll often find them in basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
4. Cockroaches Run Fast
Some cockroaches are able to run about three miles per hour. In one second, they can travel a distance equivalent to 50 body lengths. The same is true for baby cockroaches. Cockroach nymphs can run almost as fast as adults can, even just a few days after hatching.
5. Cockroaches Like Tiny Spaces
Cockroaches are thigmotactic. This means that they like to squeeze into small spaces. Having walls or something solid touching them makes them feel protected. Because of this, they often hide in tiny cracks and crevices in your home. This can make it difficult to keep these pests away.
6. Cockroaches Are Resilient
It’s been said that cockroaches can survive a nuclear event. This isn’t completely true, but they are resilient. Cockroaches can handle exposure to radiation better than humans. They can actually withstand 10x the amount of radiation. This combined with their ability to go without food for weeks speaks to their resiliency.
Cockroaches may be fascinating, but you don’t want to share your space with them. If these pests have invaded, we’re here to help! Check out our Roach Killer Gel Bait for a more family-friendly solution. It’s designed to attack the source of the infestation and not just the cockroaches you can see.