Their end is in sight

There are many things that we were not told when we set out to live in Spain, one was the variety of insects we would encounter. Of course, those who holidayed in Spain before moving here would have been aware of most of the bugs we find here but then it is different being on holiday with pests and living with them.

The cockroach – a few facts:

Cockroaches are among the hardiest insects on the planet. They are capable of surviving for long periods on meagre resources and can even tolerate high doses of radiation. They are also extremely adaptable to new environments and will eat almost anything. Some species can produce over 20,000 young in their lifetime.

Considering their bad reputation, it may come as a surprise that only a handful of the 4,000 species of cockroach are considered common household pests. These ancient, primitive insects are most common where the climate is warm and humid. Famous for their hissing, cockroaches can reach an impressive nine centimetres in length, although most species are much smaller.

The most common one we find here is the Oriental Cockroach

Oriental Cockroaches probably get their names from trade ships but they are actually from Africa. They are large and very dark compared to other cockroaches. They usually travel through sewer pipes and drains. They prefer dirty places and cooler temperatures than other cockroaches. An Oriental cockroach creates a strong smell and is considered one of the dirtiest of all the cockroaches.

DIET

Oriental cockroaches feed on all types of garbage and other organic material.

HABITAT

Oriental cockroaches also live in sewers and wet, decaying areas, such as basements and crawlspaces, firewood and piles of leaves.

IMPACT

Cockroaches crawl through dirty areas and then walk around our homes tracking in lots of bacteria and germs. They can contaminate food by shedding their skins. Their cast off skin and waste by-products are allergens that can trigger allergic reactions, asthma and other illnesses, especially in children.

PREVENTION

• Keep your home clean and dry.
• Vacuum often and seal cracks in and around your house.
• If you see cockroaches, it is best to call a pest management professional due to the illnesses they can spread.

Now the good news: Next week the pest control people will be up at Villas Andrea to put poison down the drains.

My thanks to our neighbour Gordon for providing this information.