How Quickly Do Cockroaches Reproduce?

Though they’re not a major threat to the structure of your home, cockroaches pose an immediate threat to the health and safety of you and your loved ones. 

In addition to their unsettling appearance, cockroaches spread disease by contaminating food. Cockroaches regurgitate saliva as they eat, depositing germs and bacteria onto any food they touch. They can also be a trigger for asthma attacks and allergic reactions.

There are many types of cockroaches all over the world. The most common types found in an infestation are American cockroaches, brown-banded cockroaches, German cockroaches, and Oriental cockroaches. 

Generally, these species can be identified by their flat, oily body, brownish color, and six long legs. To prevent a cockroach infestation in your home or business, it’s crucial to educate yourself about these critters. Discover how quickly cockroaches reproduce, and how PURCOR Pest Solutions can keep these pests a bay.

Average Reproduction Cycle of a Cockroach

Did you know that the average span of a cockroach is between 168 days and 786 days? Female American cockroaches store sperm, so they only need to mate once to lay eggs a number of times. 

Once they’ve mated that one time, a female cockroach can produce two oothecae, or egg cases,  of cockroach eggs per week. Each ootheca—a dark brown, symmetrical casing about 5/16  inch long—contains 14 to 16 eggs. In her lifetime, a female cockroach can produce up to 90 egg capsules. 

When at room temperature, an egg hatches into its next stage of life, a nymph, after about 55 days. A cockroach nymph is grayish at first but becomes a rust color after it molts a few times. 

Cockroaches stay in the nymph part of their lifecycle for anywhere from 160 to 971 days. In this stage of life they begin to develop wings and start foraging for food and water. An adult American cockroach is reddish-brown and matures in 6 to 12 months. 

Why do cockroaches infest homes?

Cockroaches are typically found in large numbers and usually in places where food is stored. Like most infestations, cockroaches come inside when they are looking for shelter, food, and water. 

Thankfully, that means there are a few ways to discourage these bugs from making your home their breeding ground. 

How to Prevent Cockroaches

The first defense against cockroaches is maintaining a clean environment. They love to nest in areas that are poorly sanitized. Sealing small gaps in windows, doors, and molding can also prevent cockroaches from sneaking inside. 

Kick out Cockroaches with PURCOR

While preventative measures can help minimize your chances of a cockroach infestation, it takes a team of certified pest professionals to safeguard your home. When cockroaches do become a problem in your home or business, contact the experts at PURCOR for immediate attention. We offer effective, targeted cockroach control for your peace of mind. Contact PURCOR today to request a free estimate for resolving your cockroach issue.