There are five different species of cockroaches that can be found in Canada.

There is the German, Brown-banded, Oriental, American and Common Wood cockroach. The Oriental and American cockroaches are found in basement areas, steam tunnels or sewage pits and tunnels, while the Common Wood cockroach can be found outside in leaf litter and under bark chips. A single female German cockroach only lives for one year but has the ability to produce thousands of cockroaches within one year's time. For all species of cockroaches almost everything is a food source, paper, cloth, plants, etc.

Cockroaches are active all year round and are most active at night. Since they are nocturnal, any sudden light will cause them to scurry for shelter. They are not normally known to cause damage but cockroaches are associated with the transmission of polio, many forms of viruses and Salmonella bacteria, the organisms responsible for food poisoning.  

Don't be fooled by the misconception that cockroaches are only found in unclean environments. In fact, cockroaches can be found in hospitals, hotels, restaurants, bakeries, butcher shops, multi-unit residences and homes. Cockroaches are attracted to food, water, warmth and shelter. Their habitat is around sinks, behind stoves and refrigerators, in drains and cracks. These pests are highly adaptable and are not affected by temperatures due to their nature of being indoors.  

There is little that can be done to prevent an infestation. Taking the time to inspect produce or packages entering the building can prevent cockroaches from establishing themselves in your building. The excercise of good sanitation and the elimnination of accessible food are ways to minimize the extent of the infestation.

For more information please visit our Cockroach Information page and the Do It Yourself Cockroach products.

For questions or concerns regarding cockroach treatments please call: