What Eats Cockroaches?
American Cockroach
What Eats Cockroaches in Nature?
Cockroaches play a vital role in the ecosystem. Though some die of natural causes, many more factor into the food cycle as meals for cockroach predators. In the wild, these include:
-
Amphibians like toads and frogs
-
Small mammals such as mice and shrews
A few parasitic wasps target cockroaches as well. These species lay their eggs inside cockroach egg cases. Some fungi also prove lethal, releasing spores that attach to the insects. An affected cockroach can spread its condition to another host.
Indoor Cockroach Predators
In the home, cockroaches are much less likely to fall prey to predators. In addition to food and water, safety is one of the main reasons these pests infest houses.
Inside, cockroaches typically die of old age. However, their remains feed a number of hungry creatures, resulting in yet more pest problems for residents. Beetle larvae, silverfish, and even other roaches make up the majority of what eats cockroaches inside the house.
Getting Rid of Cockroaches
Homeowners who find cockroaches indoors should enlist professional support. Orkin’s pest experts can take the proper measures to handle these pests as well as any cockroach predators.