The name “cockroach” comes from the Spanish word for cockroach, cucaracha, transformed by 1620s English folk etymology into “cock” and “roach”.[7] The scientific name derives from the Latin blatta, which means “an insect that shuns the light”.
This article answers to “How to get rid of flying cockroach ?”
Following are some key points regarding cockraches :
- The cockroaches are an ancient group, with their ancestors, known as “roachoids“, originating during the Carboniferous period, some 320 million years ago. Majority of species are small and inoffensive and live in a wide range of habitats around the world.
- Some species, such as the gregarious German cockroach, have an elaborate social structure involving common shelter, social dependence, information transfer and kin recognition.
- Cockroaches are abundant throughout the world and live in a wide range of environments, especially in the tropics and subtropics.[31] Cockroaches can withstand extremely low temperatures, allowing them to live in the Arctic. Some species are capable of surviving temperatures of −122 °C (−188 °F) by manufacturing an antifreeze made out of glycerol.
Types of Cockroaches
There are mainly four types of Cockroaches:
German Cockroach
- Scientific Name: Blattella germanica
- Typically live up to 12 months and produce more eggs than other species.
American Cockroach
- Scientific Name: Periplaneta americana
- Largest in size
- Both males and females of this species have wings and are capable of flying short distances.
Brown-banded Cockroach
- Scientific Name: Supella longipalpa
- Only males are capable of flight
Oriental Cockroach
- Scientific Name: Blatta orientalis
- Neither male nor female Oriental cockroaches are capable of flight.
Types of Roaches that Fly
- Several species are capable of flight for short distances, while others use their wings to simply glide, rather than flap their wings to fly.
- Asian roaches, smoky brown roaches, Australian roaches, and wood roaches are capable of flight.
- American roaches have wings, but only glide for short distances.
- German and Oriental roaches do not fly.
- The bright green Cuban cockroaches fly as well.
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Characteristics of Flying Cockroaches
- Flying cockroaches are a subgroup of the Periplaneta species, characterised by their ability to fly.
- Flying cockroaches are attracted to interior lights and can infest homes, especially at night.
- Flying cockroaches have distinctive wings and body shape.
- They are nocturnal and active at night, preferring to hide during the day.
- Flying cockroaches can fly short distances, but some species can fly longer.
- They are not equipped for sustained flight, but some cockroaches sometimes fly to reach food.
- Many species of cockroaches that fly do not live for long periods indoors.
- Heat and moisture are like magnets for flying cockroaches. The pests gather near heaters, in heating ducts, and around leaky air conditioning units.
- Flying cockroaches don’t bite, they carry bacteria and disease from decaying material.
- Viruses, fungi, and bacteria transfer from flying cockroaches to foods like rice, bread, and peanuts. Infestations put residents at risk for several forms of gastroenteritis, including dysentery and food poisoning.
Why Do Cockroaches Fly
Cockroaches fly to escape danger and to find food, mate and shelter.
Benefits of Flight for Cockroaches
- Flying cockroaches can escape danger and find food more easily.
- Flying cockroaches have an advantage over non-flying cockroaches in terms of survival and reproduction.
Signs of Flying Roaches Infestation
- Look for signs of cockroach infestation, such as droppings, eggshells, and live cockroaches.
- Check for cockroach-hiding spots, such as dark corners and under appliances.
- Watch for cockroach activity, such as flying or crawling.
Common Places to Find Flying Roaches
- Flying cockroaches can be found in homes, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
- They can also be found in restaurants, hotels, and other food establishments.
- Flying cockroaches can infest homes through open windows, doors, or vents.
Health Risks and Property Damage
- Flying cockroaches can spread diseases and trigger allergies.
- They can also contaminate food and surfaces.
- Flying cockroaches can cause emotional distress and discomfort.
Diseases and Allergies Associated with Cockroaches
- Cockroaches can spread diseases such as salmonella, dysentery, and gastroenteritis.
- They can also trigger allergies and asthma attacks.
How to get rid of flying cockroach
- Use sticky traps or bait traps to catch flying cockroaches.
- Seal entry points to prevent cockroaches from flying into your home.
- Use a dehumidifier to reduce cockroach attraction to moisture.
- Some people claim that certain essential oils are a natural repellent to cockroaches, but the efficacy is unproven.
- High-quality name-brand traps and sprays will successfully kill surface-level flying roaches but often have trouble getting to larvae and hidden pests.
- Remove clutter or debris that cockroaches prefer to hide and nest in.
- Get rid of standing water around your home. This includes leaky pipes and full gutters.
- Seal cracks in your home’s foundation, doors and windows, and other entry points.
- Get rid of excess cardboard, newspaper, or materials that roaches will eat.
- Ultimately, the best way to get rid of flying cockroaches is to hire a professional pest control service.
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Professional Extermination Methods
- Contact a pest control professional for effective removal. A professional pest control service can provide effective solutions and ensure a pest-free home. Calling a professional can save time and money in the long run.
Prevention and Maintenance
- Keep your home clean and free of clutter to reduce the likelihood of cockroach infestations.
- Regularly inspect and maintain your living space to prevent cockroach infestations.
- Store food properly and reduce moisture to prevent cockroach infestations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Cockroach Control
- Not sealing entry points can allow cockroaches to re-infest your home.
- Not using effective traps or baits can lead to ineffective control.
- Not maintaining a clean and sanitary home can lead to re-infestation.
When to Call a Professional
It’s best to seek professional assistance if you have a severe infestation or If you’re not sure how to get rid of flying cockroaches.
Conclusion
- It’s essential to understand flying cockroaches’ characteristics, behaviour, and habits to prevent infestation.
- Flying roaches can be very dangerous, so you need to get help from a professional pest control service in your area.