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Montreal Pest Directory

Cockroach (Blattodea)

Complete Montreal Pest Directory

Scientific Name:

Blattella germanica
Periplaneta americana

Also known as:

Roaches, kitchen bugs, sewer bugs

What Are Cockroaches?

Cockroaches are resilient, nocturnal insects that thrive in human habitats. Known for their ability to survive in extreme conditions, they infest kitchens, basements, sewers, and any environment where food and moisture are present. Cockroaches are scavengers, feeding on organic matter ranging from crumbs to decaying waste.

Global Context

Roaches have existed for over 300 million years, adapting through ice ages and mass extinctions. They are among the oldest insects still in existence, with over 4,000 known species worldwide.

Quebec Context

In Montreal and greater Quebec, cockroaches are typically found in restaurants, apartment buildings, laundromats, and older residential homes. The most common species is the German cockroach (Blattella germanica), followed by the American cockroach (Periplaneta americana).

How Cockroaches Infest Homes

Enter through drains, cracks, grocery bags, and second-hand furniture
Hide in warm, moist environments (behind fridges, under sinks, inside walls)
Emerge at night to feed on crumbs, grease, garbage, pet food
Carry egg cases (oothecae) that hatch dozens of nymphs

Why Cockroaches Are a Problem

Contaminate food and surfaces with pathogens (Salmonella, E. coli, etc.)
Cause allergies and asthma, especially in children
Smell: Produce a distinct musty odor when in large numbers
Hard to eliminate: High reproductive rate and resistance to pesticides

Reproduction Rate

1 Day: Females can lay an ootheca containing 30–40 eggs every few days
1 Week: Eggs hatch into nymphs and begin development
1 Month: One female can spawn over 400 offspring if conditions are ideal

Parasites & Cross-Infestation Risks

Cockroach → Bacteria: Spread over 30 bacterial species on legs and body
Cockroach → Protozoa: Possible vectors for pathogens like Giardia
Cockroach → Worms: Can carry roundworm eggs and other intestinal parasites

Why Hire a Professional

Over-the-counter sprays rarely reach hidden nests or affect eggs. A licensed exterminator will: Conduct a thorough inspection, identify infestation points, apply gel baits and residual insecticides in strategic zones, monitor egg cycles, and provide follow-up treatments. Professional service ensures full life-cycle disruption and long-term prevention.