Why havent cockroaches thrived in Ireland?

seven_eleven

It's probably a good thing, but is there a specific reason why cockroaches havent thrived in Ireland. I presume its because of the weather, but you would think that such a tough insect would be able to adapt to the climate.

I know we're not totally without them, and you will find them in sewers and particularly run down warm buildings, but you very very rarely see or hear of them anywhere else.

I think I've seen one cockroach on a footpath one summer here, and to be honest it could have just been a species of beetle.

Victor

1. Too many Geckos preying on them.
2. The weather.
3. Too much competition

olly_mac

I must say, I have encountered many of them while surveying old buildings. But I suppose that falls in the parameters you mentioned.

I have been informed by a few archaeologists I know that they first appear in the bioarchaeological record in the mid to late 17th century... just when people started importing tea in large amounts It is believed they came in with the cargo.

So every time you enjoy your Lyons or Barry's, think of cockroaches

ytpe2r5bxkn0c1

Cockroaches have been in Ireland for hundreds of years but numbers have increased in the past couple of decades - primarily in multi-story apartments. Apartments are particularly susceptible because of the warmth they offer, and because the cockroach can move from one to another easily.

kylith

Matilda Dazzling Tapestry wrote: »

Cockroaches have been in Ireland for hundreds of years but numbers have increased in the past couple of decades - primarily in multi-story apartments. Apartments are particularly susceptible because of the warmth they offer, and because the cockroach can move from one to another easily.

I suppose if they were in a house the owner could spray and wipe them out, but in an apartment building they just go next door until the heat's off.

Corkbah

kylith wrote: »

I suppose if they were in a house the owner could spray and wipe them out, but in an apartment building they just go next door until the heat's off.

apartment blocks can get a complete spray too - just takes a LOT more time and money and organisational skills.

ytpe2r5bxkn0c1

The spraying, or not, of buildings does not ultimately determine the existence of cockroaches in a property. Most homes have never been sprayed for roaches but still don't have them. Other locations have needed pest control and find a recurring problem nonetheless. Habitat, hygiene, etc are the real defining causes.