The Hidden World of Insects

Insects are all around us, often unseen. When comparing the population of humans to insects on Earth, the difference is staggering. Humans represent only a tiny fraction—about 0.06 out of 550 gigatons (GT)—while insects account for a full gigaton, making them roughly 17 times more populous than humans. Recent studies estimate there are approximately 200 million insects for every person on the planet. That’s a lot of bugs!

These creatures are drawn to areas abundant in resources, particularly shelter, water, and food. One of the most notorious intruders that often invade our homes is the cockroach. Many people feel embarrassed when they spot roaches in their living spaces. However, these pests can infiltrate even the cleanest homes, so don’t take it personally—an infestation is not a reflection of your housekeeping skills.

In New Jersey, five common species of cockroaches tend to invade residential and commercial spaces:

• German Cockroach
• Brown-Banded Cockroach
• Oriental Cockroach
• American Cockroach
• Wood Cockroach

These pests typically prefer dark, moist environments, but each species has its own preferred areas within the home. For instance, you’ll likely find the German cockroach in kitchens and bathrooms, while the Brown-Banded cockroach enjoys slightly warmer conditions, often seeking shelter in garages or other heat-retaining spaces.

Despite their unsettling presence, cockroaches are fascinating creatures. They are predominantly nocturnal, spending about 75% of their time sleeping outside of the dark hours when you encounter them. Contrary to popular belief, cockroaches are not afraid of light; in fact, some of the 4,500 species around the world are often seen gathering near bright windows or around TVs.

These resilient insects can reproduce rapidly, with some developing from larvae to adulthood in less than 60 days. They can live between 6 months to a year, feeding on greasy foods and decaying matter in your home. Remarkably, cockroaches can survive temperatures as low as 34°F, hold their breath for up to 40 minutes, and endure without food for an entire month. So, no matter how clean your home may be, they can persist long enough to reproduce.

To effectively eliminate cockroaches in your home, it’s essential to seek professional help. Silver Bullet Pest Control, a locally owned and operated company, employs cutting-edge treatment methods tailored for your specific needs. We specialize in the prevention and removal of both insects and wildlife, customizing our services to align with your monthly requirements or the seasonal surges of insect activity.

Don’t wait! Call us today to safeguard your home with the #1 pest control service in Bergen County.