Cockroaches have been around for over 300 million years, outlasting even dinosaurs. These notorious pests are not only a nuisance but also pose serious health risks as they can carry diseases. The National Environment Agency notes that cockroaches contribute to the rise in cholera and food-borne diseases in Singapore, often lurking out of sight.

Here’s a straightforward guide to understanding and managing cockroach infestations in Singapore.

Types of Cockroaches Found in Singapore

• German Cockroach: Small, about 20mm long, with light brown coloring and two dark stripes on their backs. These are commonly found indoors, especially around kitchens and areas where food is prepared. They are particularly tough to manage because they’re resistant to insecticides and reproduce quickly.
• American Cockroach: These are larger, about 40-50mm long, with a reddish-brown body and a yellow band around the edge of their head. They are adaptable, living both indoors and outdoors, and often found in sewers.
• Brown-banded Cockroach: Similar in size to the German variety but with distinct color bands. They are typically found in homes and offices.

Understanding Their Lifecycle

Cockroaches go through a metamorphosis that begins from an egg and progresses through several stages before reaching adulthood. They adapt well to their environment, feeding on any organic matter available, including food scraps and even non-food items like cardboard.

Spotting an Infestation

Cockroaches are mostly active at night, which makes spotting an infestation challenging. Here are key signs that your property might be hosting these pests:

• Daytime Activity: Seeing cockroaches during the day often means there’s a large population forcing them out of their hiding spots.
• Visibility in Well-Lit Areas: If cockroaches are spotted in normally well-lit areas, it’s likely the infestation has grown significantly.
• Food and Surface Contamination: Look for signs like chewed packages, fecal smears, or tiny bite marks on food items.
• Egg Casings and Shed Skin: These are indicators of reproduction and suggest a growing population.
• Droppings: Small, pepper-like droppings along walls or in corners are a common sign.
• Unusual Odor: A musty, noticeable odor often accompanies a severe infestation.

Dealing with Cockroaches

DIY Methods: Simple home solutions like sticky traps or pandan leaves can offer temporary relief but are not long-term solutions.

Professional Pest Control: For persistent infestations, professional help is necessary. Experts like ORIGIN Exterminators assess the infestation level, identify the cockroach species, and determine their nesting sites to effectively eliminate them and prevent future issues.

If you’re dealing with cockroaches, it’s crucial to act quickly to mitigate health risks and reclaim your space from these resilient pests.