With the rising temperatures, the high season for cockroaches is also beginning in Cyprus. Especially in June, the demand for pest control services increases significantly. While locals are used to the seasonal phenomenon, many newcomers are surprised by the size and abundance of insects during the summer months.

But professional pest control and thorough cleanliness alone are often not enough. If you want to keep cockroaches away permanently, you should above all recognize possible access routes and consistently secure them.

are mainly three different species on the island:

The American cockroach is the largest species in Cyprus and reaches a body length of up to four centimeters. It has a reddish-brown coloration, fully developed wings and can fly short distances. Their natural habitat is sewage systems as well as damp underground outdoor areas.

At about 1.5 centimeters, the German cockroach is much smaller. The two dark stripes on the back are characteristic. It lives almost exclusively in buildings and prefers kitchens, bathrooms and hidden areas in cupboards or electrical appliances.

The oriental cockroach is dark brown to almost black, shiny and unable to fly. It feels particularly comfortable in cool, damp and dark environments.

According to pest controllers, around 60 to 70 percent of all operations in summer are accounted for by the American cockroach. About a quarter of the infestations are caused by the German cockroach, while the oriental cockroach accounts for a much smaller share.

Although cockroaches do not sting or actively attack humans, many people react to the animals with disgust or panic. This phenomenon is even known medically and is called catsaridaphobia – derived from the Greek word "katsarida" for cockroach.

The reasons for this lie mainly in their behavior and lifestyle. The insects move extremely fast and unpredictably, which frightens many people. At the same time, we instinctively associate them with dirt, as they often live in sewer pipes, damp areas, and near organic waste.

The Mediterranean climate provides ideal conditions for their reproduction. Unlike in more northern countries, Cyprus does not have long, cold winters that would naturally reduce populations. Instead, the animals can reproduce almost all year round.

With temperatures of over 30 degrees Celsius in summer, their activity reaches its peak.

The nature of the island also plays an important role. Millions of olive and citrus trees create moist underground habitats that provide perfect conditions for cockroaches. When water becomes scarce in summer, the animals migrate via sewers and drainage systems to inhabited areas in search of moisture.

Open floor drains, inadequately sealed pipe penetrations or gaps under sliding doors make it easier for them to find their way into houses and apartments.

The burden varies considerably within the island.

In densely built-up cities such as Limassol, widely ramified and sometimes older sewer networks provide ideal conditions. During the summer heat, numerous insects rise from the underground systems into residential areas.

In rural regions such as Latchi or Polis, the situation is often more relaxed. There are smaller drainage systems and a largely intact ecosystem there. Natural enemies such as lizards or native spiders help keep populations in check before they even get into homes.

If you want to keep cockroaches away effectively, you should not rely solely on insect sprays or cleaning measures. Above all, the consistent sealing of possible accesses is crucial.

These include:

Cardboard boxes in particular are often underestimated. The material retains moisture, provides ideal hiding places and contains organic adhesives that can even serve as food for the insects. In addition, delivery cartons or beverage crates have often come into contact with cockroaches in warehouses.

Plastic boxes are therefore a much more hygienic alternative for storage and storage in the home.

Conclusion

Cockroaches are just as much a part of summer in Cyprus as high temperatures and dry winds. However, with the right knowledge, good sealing of the house and a few simple precautions, the risk of an infestation can be significantly reduced.

Especially for emigrants and new islanders, a little preparation and attention often saves a lot of trouble later on – and unpleasant surprises in the bathroom or kitchen.





Author MF Editorial Team
Source: Health Tips and Hygiene