Holidaymakers have been warned that if they see a white cockroach in their accommodation, they must take immediate action as it could actually be the sign of something worse
A warning has been issued to holidaymakers if they see a white cockroach.
According to a recent study, the presence of white cockroaches in a home is a rare but significant occurrence, and a sign of a severe infestation. The problem is particularly big in Spain, where authorities reported a significant rise in infestations last year – up by 33 per cent compared to the rate in 2023, Euro News reports.
White cockroaches are often mistaken for albino cockroaches, but are actually at a specific stage of development. Whilst many think these types of cockroaches are a separate species, they are actually cockroaches that have recently moulted, shedding their exoskeleton as part of their growth process. After moulting, the insect appears white and is soft for a period of time until its new exoskeleton hardens and darkens — which usually takes a few hours.
The moulting process occurs throughout a cockroach’s life cycle, which is usually split into three stages: egg, nymph and adult. When the cockroaches are white like this, it usually indicates they are in their nymph stage. The discarded exoskeletons can often be found nearby. Hence, spotting one of these small pale beasts is a red flag as it signifies that cockroaches are thriving an reproducing somewhere within the property.
Cockroaches are prolific breeders and they tend to hide in cracks, crevices and other hard-to-reach areas, making them difficult to find and control. They also have a rapid reproduction cycle, which means once they are mature, they can quickly multiply.
Hotter-than-average temperatures across countries in Europe mean that the breeding season of the creatures is getting longer and their genetic resistance to conventional insecticides has been enhanced.
Holidaymakers are advised to take immediate action with thorough cleaning of the property as the first step, to stop the spread of the cockroaches. In addition, any cracks or gaps in walls and floors should be sealed. If you prefer to deter the pests naturally, lavender oil is an effective repellent. Mix it with some hot water and mop it across your floors to create a natural barrier.
In some cases, the infestation may be very severe, which may require intervention from professional pest control services. Experts can fumigate a property, which can help to eradicate the cockroaches.
Cockroaches are known carriers of bacteria and pathogens, which makes their presence a matter of public health as well as personal discomfort. Ignoring a white cockroach sighting might seem harmless, but it often points to a much more severe issue that could be harder to control.
Cockroaches are often found in hotels because of the food and shelter they find there. The pests can carry disease-producing bacteria on their skin, which they can spread through food. Cockroach carcasses and eggs can also trigger allergies and asthma attacks.
If you find cockroaches in your hotel room, you should report the issue to the front desk and request a room change. If the infestation seems severe, consider asking to be moved to a different floor or section of the hotel, and if the hotel doesn’t address the problem promptly, you may need to look for alternative accommodation.
