With so many roach killer products (i.e roach trap, roach spray, roach bait) that human uses to get rid of cockroaches, have you ever wondered whether if there’s any Cockroach Predators out there?
Despite how much we hate this nasty pest, cockroaches do play a role in the ecosystem on earth and are actually a good nutrient and protein source for the many species of reptiles, amphibians, insects and even for a certain fungi.
Read on to find out who and what are these roach eaters:
Animals That Eats Cockroaches
- Frogs & Toads
- Leopard geckos
- Panther chameleons
- Bearded dragons
- Hedgehogs
- Skinks
- Turtles
- Monitor lizards
- Iguanas
- Rats and mice
- Some types of birds (see below)
All roach-eaters have their own unique ways of catching and consuming the roaches. Some prefers certain roach species over others.
Most of the natural predators like the frogs, toads, geckos and chameleons simply use their sticky and long tongue to catch the cockroach, before killing and gobble them down. Reptiles like the chameleons are also capable of chasing down cockroaches for a quick and nutrient snack.
>> Also see: 23 Fascinating and Creepy Cockroach Facts
Lizard & reptile owners also uses cockroach to feed their pet as it’s inexpensive and rich in nutritious (some can eat up to 20 over roaches per serving). A rule of thumb is to feed cockroaches that are about the length of space between your reptile’s eyes.
Birds That Eat Roaches
- Makholas
- Laughingthrushes
- Babblers
- Collared Kingfisher
- Orioles
- Peafowl
- Parrots (most species)
- Oriental Magpie Robin
- Tree Pies
- Scops Owl
- Pheasants
- Greater Racket-tailed Drongo
- Starlings (most species)
- Coucals
- Tiger Shrike
- Jays
- Junglefowl
- White-breasted Waterhen
- Mynas (most species)
Insects that Eats Cockroaches
- Ants
- Some species of beetles
- Some species of wasps
- Some species of spiders
- Certain types of mites
- Certain types of roundworms
- Certain types of centipedes
Some species of wasp prey on cockroaches by laying their eggs directly inside the roaches’ egg cases. In turn the baby wasp hatches and feed on the cockroach eggs. The most common species of cockroach that wasps target are: Brown-banded, American and Oriental roaches.
Some species of ants (i.e fire ants and argentine ants) also consumes roaches when they have a chance. Likewise for certain species of spiders and beetles.
Other Natural Cockroach Predators
The Entomopathogenic fungi attach their spores to the victim, killing the targeted roaches within a few weeks. The affected cockroaches then pass the parasite on to other roaches, causing a chain reaction of killing spree.
Final Thoughts
Ain’t we glad to know that humans are not the only living being that are contributing to the role of getting rid of cockroaches. As mentioned, on top of being one of the most common and persistent pests around, cockroaches actually makes up a large part of the diet of many other insects and animals.
>> Related article: Common Types of Cockroaches
Having these natural roach eaters are beneficial for obvious reasons. Although the list of animals and insects that feeds on cockroaches are pretty extensive, the truth is that it is unlikely that we want these cockroach predators in our house too.
That said, prevention of roaches is always better than cure. If you are facing roach infestation at home, be sure to check out these articles:
- Best roach killers
- Best roach traps
- Best boric acid for roaches
- How to get rid of roaches in car
- Top pet safe roach killer & repellent
What do you think of these natural roach predators? Are there any animal or insects that you know really love eating cockroaches? Feel free to share with us in the comment section.