While cockroach infestations have never been a major problem in northern British Columbia, they seem to be on the rise, according to an exterminator near Prince George.
We have seen a significant increase [du nombre de coquerelles] in the past year and a halfsaid Chris Milligan, regional director of extermination company Orkin.
When he started his job three years ago, the company received one or two calls a year for cockroach infestations. Today, exterminators receive two a week.
Cockroaches generally thrive in tropical and subtropical regions, but they can also live in areas inhabited by people in the northern sector, where they hide during the day and go out at night to eat leftover food. of those living in the area.
Creatures that are not appreciated
Ecologist Dezene Huber of the University of Northern British Columbia explained that despite their low popularity with humans, cockroaches play a role in ecosystems.
People usually don’t like themhe explains. Their residue can become dust to which people are allergic. They can also carry diseases.
The reasons why these insects breed in the north of the province remain uncertain. While some believe climate change is a factor, Dezene Huber sees population growth as another possible explanation.
Maybe just because there is more mobility, he says. They were able to move by various commercial means or by traveling with people, when exchanging goods or movinghe cited as an example.
According to Chris Milligan, whatever the reason for the presence of insects, the important thing, when they are discovered, is don’t panic [mais] call professionals.
With information from Winston Szeto and the show Sunshine in the North
Source: Radio-Canada
