About cockroaches

What are cockroaches?

Cockroaches are insects that are brown in color, have antennae and measure roughly four centimetres long when fully grown.

They go through three life stages: egg, nymph and adult. Female cockroaches can lay eggs multiple times a year, resulting in hundreds to thousands of cockroaches per year in cases of infestation.

Cockroaches need food, water and warmth to survive. They live for about a year and lay an average of 150 eggs during that time. Cockroaches are unlikely to bite humans, but their legs can cause scratches.

Are cockroaches a problem in Manitoba?

Yes. Manitoba is experiencing an increase in cockroach infestations, like many other parts of the country and around the world.

This is a problem because cockroaches:

• are a health hazard and can make you sick,
• reproduce quickly, and
• are hard to get rid of, particularly in multi-family buildings.

Where should I look for cockroaches?

Cockroaches can be found in any building and are usually noticed once they reach the nymph stage. This is when cockroaches begin to move around, looking for food and water.

They are attracted to dark, warm, humid areas where they can find food and water. However, cockroaches can also be found in areas of the home where food and water are not readily available, including basements, bedrooms and living rooms. Cockroaches are resourceful and will eat most food sources they can find, including pet food.

They tend to hide in dusty areas with low light. If you notice a cockroach moving around in a brightly lit area or during the day, it may be a sign of an infestation.