ABC PEST CONTROL

Description: These cockroaches are found all over the United Kingdom. Adult German cockroaches are about 12 to 15mm long and light brown except for the shield behind the head marked with two dark stripes, which run lengthwise on the body. The adults have wings but rarely fly. The nymphs are wingless and nearly black with a single light stripe running down the middle of the back. Egg capsules are light tan.

Biology: Egg cases are carried by the female until just before hatching and each female may produce four to six cases during her lifetime, each containing 18 to 50 eggs. Eggs hatch in 28 to 30 days, and nymphs develop in 40 to 125 days. Adults live for approximately six months. The German cockroach produces more eggs and has more generations per year (three to four) than any other cockroach, and only a few individuals are needed to develop into troublesome infestations.

Control: An integrated approach involving the use of cockroach traps, insecticidal gels and well targeted use of residual insecticides where appropriate is recommended. Night time inspections may be necessary in the control of difficult infestations.