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Cockroaches have a reputation for being unappealing pests. While there are many common facts about cockroaches, there are also plenty of misconceptions regarding these well-known insects. Whether you require roach control or just curious about this breed of bug, the list below will dispell some popular myths surrounding cockroaches.

5 False Beliefs About Cockroaches

1. Cockroaches Can Survive a Nuclear Explosion

Cockroaches are extremely resilient insects, making researchers wonder about their ability to withstand radiation. While 10% of these bugs have been proven to survive exposure up to 1,000 radon units, it isn’t proof that they would survive a nuclear explosion. Cockroaches have a slower cell cycle than humans, giving the radiation a smaller window to attack their cells, which contributes to their survival rate. The average cockroach would still die within an hour if exposed to a nuclear explosion.

2. Cockroaches Fear Light

While some species of cockroach do prefer darkness, any roach control expert will tell you that as many enjoy being in the light. Some will even gather on windowsills or near TV screens to get close to it. If a roach runs away because you shine a light on it, it’s likely because it’s more scared of you than the bright beam.

3. Cockroaches Only Infest Dirty Homes

roach control Hilo, HIBecause cockroaches are scavengers, they often appear around garbage bins or eating up crumbs on a dirty floor. However, they will enter a perfectly tidy pantry just as fast and consume food in there as well. While a messy home may have more exposed food for the roaches to get to, the fact is that these insects will infest any area that contains food and create a home wherever they please, regardless of the cleanliness level.

4. Cockroaches Can Fly

While some species of roach can fly, most common species can only use their wings to stabilize themselves when jumping. While this can look like a flight from afar, it is merely a trick of the eye. Many roaches don’t use their wings or don’t have wings at all.

5. Stepping On Cockroaches Releases Their Eggs

Squashing these bugs is a common form of roach control and will not release their eggs. Because most cockroaches use hard cases known as oothecae to hold their young, the egg sack is not attached to the bug itself. Oothecae are commonly deposited on various surfaces around a home and will hatch when they’re ready to do so.

 

Keep your home cockroach free by calling the roach control experts at Hilo Termite & Pest Control. Serving the entire Big Island of Hawaii, these professional exterminators have over 40 years of experience and provide high-quality roach and termite services. From preventative ground treatments to tent fumigation, they offer residential and commercial pest control using safe, environmentally friendly repellants. Visit their website for more information about their services or give them a call at (808) 935-8301 to schedule a consultation today.
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