When Cockroaches Lay Eggs

Some people may be confused about when cockroaches lay eggs. However, this misconception is not correct. The female cockroach secretes a special capsule around the eggs known as the ootheca. The ootheca is then either dropped on the ground or glued to the substrate. The production of this capsule is a unique adaptation found only in cockroaches and praying mantids. This similarity may indicate a close phylogenetic relationship between cockroaches and praying mantis.

A single cockroach can lay anywhere from 13 to 40 eggs in one egg case. While this is not as common as live cockroaches, finding eggs is a good indication of an infestation. Once you find eggs, contact a pest control company immediately. Although cockroaches lay eggs in a variety of locations, they are found most often near food sources and water sources.

Female cockroaches lay multiple eggs during their lifetime. Some species lay as many as 10 egg cases. Eggs are usually between 0.07 to 0.19 inches long and range in size from white to brown. The color of roach eggs will also vary depending on the species. The eggs are typically surrounded by a protective casing called an ootheca.

Cockroaches prefer dark, moist places. Some species like to lay their eggs in cardboard. This material is odor-absorbing and secure. It also contains all of the food the cockroach needs to lay its eggs.

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