Cockroach Facts & Myths in Ocala, FL; Can a Roach Survive Being Flushed or Live Without a Head?

When someone sees a cockroach in their home they usually panic. Partly, because cockroaches carry around with them a reputation for filth. Nobody wants to see this disgusting pest roaming the hallways in their home, or even worse, the kitchen. Unfortunately, when you live in a hot, humid area, you will most likely find yourself battling this gross insect. Pest 911 is here to share some interesting, albeit disturbing facts about cockroaches as well as some tips to help you control them.

Flushing Roaches Down the Toilet May Not Kill Them

It might be tempting to flush a cockroach down the toilet or sink to kill them rather than squish them, but it won’t be the end of that cockroach most likely. A cockroach can hold its breath for over 40 minutes and live submerged for over 30! Plus they are good climbers so chances are they will live to see another day.

How Long Can a Cockroach Live Without Water?

Cockroaches are cold blooded, and because of this, they can go a long time without finding something to eat. They can go over a month in fact. The real way to get rid of a cockroach is to eliminate their water source. They can only live for one week without water.

How Fast Can Cockroaches Run?

We all know that cockroaches are quick, since they scatter as soon as you flip on the lights outside in the evening. But, did you realize they could run three miles an hour? That is a pretty quick way to spread germs!

How Long Can a Cockroach Live Without Its Head?

For most creatures, if you cut off their head they die immediately. This isn’t the case for roaches. They can live without their heads for over a week. They have an open circulatory system and are able to breathe out little openings at each of their body segments. The only reason they will die after a week or so, is because they die of thirst. Without a mouth to get water they finally die.

How to Get Rid of Cockroaches in Your House

To control the cockroach population in your home, follow these steps:
• Store Food Properly– Keep food in an air tight container to avoid attracting any cockroaches.
• Don’t Leave Dirty Dishes in the Sink– Cockroaches are greatly attracted to old, rotting food. Don’t leave dirty dishes in your sink.
• Keep Your Home Clutter Free– A house full of clutter gives cockroaches more places to hide during the day since they are nocturnal and only come out at night.
• Fix any Leaking Pipes– Standing water is a big attractant for cockroaches. Without it they will die, and if they find a source, they will definitely stick around.
• Eliminate Entry Points– Don’t invite cockroaches into your home by leaving cracks in your foundation unfixed or tears and holes in your screens.

Cockroach Control

If you are struggling with a thriving cockroach population at your home, it is definitely time to call the professional pest control technicians at Pest 911 to exterminate them. Cockroaches reproduce at an alarming rate, and it doesn’t take long for a cockroach infestation to ensue. Don’t hesitate to call for help when you spot cockroaches running around your home. Call us today!