10 Surprising Cockroach Facts
Cockroaches are honestly one of the most fascinating pests around. While these insects may seem disgusting to most people, there are many interesting things about them. For example, here are 10 almost unbelievable facts about cockroaches.
Astounding cockroach facts you may not know
1. They can live without a head for a week
This is probably one of the most surprising cockroach facts. The reason why they are able to do this is simply because they have more than one nervous centre. This means the cockroach doesn’t need its head to survive. In fact, the only reason why headless cockroaches die, is because without a mouth they cannot eat or drink.
2. They can move incredibly quickly
If you’ve ever encountered cockroaches in your kitchen, you’ll know how fast they are. According to scientists, these insects can travel 5 kilometres per hour.
3. They are nature’s ultimate survivors
Cockroaches can survive almost anything. They can go for three months without food and about a week without water. They can also survive for up to an hour without air.
4. But they cannot survive a nuclear blast
One of the most quoted cockroach facts is the myth that they can survive a nuclear blast. As it turns out this isn’t true. What scientists found instead is that cockroaches can absorb radiation at a rate 15 times higher than humans.
5. They can trigger allergic attacks
Most people don’t know this, but cockroaches and their detritus contain a number of allergens. These can trigger allergic attacks and also asthma.
6. They can be milked
Believe it or not people are now drinking cockroach “milk” There’s a cockroach in the South Pacific that actually produces a milk-like substance that is rich in nutrients. According to people who have tried this milk, it tastes almost the same as cows’, only sweeter.
7. They are cannibals
This could be the most disturbing of our cockroach facts. Did you know that these insects often indulge in cannibalism? This is often done when food is scarce, or to reduce the population.
8. They love alcohol
It’s a known fact that cockroaches will eat and drink virtually anything. This includes beer, ciders, and strong spirits. The reason why cockroach go for these drinks is mostly because of the sugar found inside. You may see them scurrying around empty glasses which is how you know you have a cockroach problem.
9. They can fit through the tiniest gaps
It’s been discovered that cockroaches can squeeze through a gap as small as 3 millimeters. They do this by flattening their bodies and moving their legs to the side. They also have flexible exoskeletons which helps them slip through gaps.
10. They are some of the oldest insects
Cockroaches have been around since the dawn of time. It’s estimated they have existed for more than 300 million years, which means they date back to the time of the dinosaurs.