Cockroaches are among the oldest living species on Earth, having existed long before the age of dinosaurs. But despite their evolutionary success, they remain one of the most feared and reviled creatures in human habitats.

Here are six facts about cockroaches that might make you think twice before ignoring their presence — or worse, stepping on them.

1. They’ll eat almost anything — including us

Cockroaches are scavengers with a terrifyingly flexible diet. Beyond the usual fare of food crumbs, meats, starches, and sweets, they’re known to chew on wallpaper, book bindings, soap, and even faeces. But what’s more alarming is that they’ve been reported to nibble on humans in their sleep — targeting toenails, eyelashes, and dead skin.

2. You might be eating them too

The FDA allows a certain number of insect parts in processed food — and cockroach fragments make up a fair share. The average chocolate bar can legally contain up to eight insect parts. They can also end up in peanut butter, popcorn, and cheese. So yes, there might be traces of roaches in your favourite snack.

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3. They can live without their heads

It’s not an urban legend — cockroaches really can survive for days without their heads. Thanks to an open circulatory system and basic brain function located in other body parts, they can keep moving until dehydration eventually kills them.

4. Cannibalism helps control infestations

In times of food scarcity, roaches won’t hesitate to turn on each other. This cannibalistic behaviour actually helps regulate their population when conditions become too cramped or resources run out.

5. Yes, cockroach milk exists

A particular species, Diploptera punctata, gives birth to live young and produces milk-like crystals to nourish them. These protein-rich crystals have been touted as a "superfood" by some researchers, claiming they’re more nutritious than cow’s milk — though it's unlikely to hit your supermarket shelves anytime soon.

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6. Some cultures used them for medicine

Boiled cockroach tea was once used in ancient Greek, Egyptian, and even New Orleans folk remedies. Though rare today, this historical use reflects how deeply embedded cockroaches have been in human societies — not always as pests.

Why you shouldn’t squash them

According to pest control experts, stepping on cockroaches might feel satisfying, but it's far from safe. Crushed roaches can release bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli onto your floor. Their remains can also attract other pests like ants and create foul odours.

“Squashing cockroaches is unhygienic and can actually worsen the infestation,” said Deepak Sharma from Indian Pest Control Company.

So next time you see one of these ancient invaders crawling around your home, maybe skip the stomp and call a professional instead.