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Cockroaches

American, German, Brown-Banded and Oriental — identification and control, by species.

Species 01: American Cockroach

Cockroach
Reddish-brown American cockroach on a dark surface
Field photo — American CockroachSPEC. CR-01

Identification & habits

  • Nicknamed “water bug” or “Palmetto bug”.
  • 1 to 2 inches long.
  • Nymphs are grayish brown; adults are reddish brown.
  • Well-developed wings but infrequent fliers.
  • Markings on the pronotum look like sunglasses.
  • Found in places of high relative humidity in cracks and crevices.
  • Enter buildings through sewer systems and cracks/crevices.
  • Prefer fermented foods but can eat anything.
  • Look for conducive conditions such as worn weather stripping under doors and openings around plumbing.

Species 02: Brown-Banded Cockroach

Cockroach
Light brown banded cockroach viewed from above
Field photo — Brown-Banded CockroachSPEC. CR-02

Identification & habits

  • Adults about ½ inch long.
  • Light brown to brown.
  • Brown liberty bell-shaped pattern near the pronotal shield.
  • Wings darker at base but paler towards tips, with a pale band at base and another about 1/3 from the base.
  • Males' wings extend beyond the abdomen and they can fly; females cannot.
  • Normally southern, but can be found in warmer buildings in the north.
  • Prefer temperatures of 80 °F or above and less humid environments.
  • Tend to avoid water sources.
  • Inspect electric motors of appliances, behind picture frames, and high points such as ceilings.
  • If attic treatment is needed, a permanently attached ladder and secured floor must be in place.

Species 03: Oriental Cockroach

Cockroach
Shiny dark Oriental cockroach on stone
Field photo — Oriental CockroachSPEC. CR-03

Identification & habits

  • Adult males about 1 inch; females about 1.25 inches long.
  • Shiny dark brown to black.
  • Wings are much shorter than the abdomen, and neither sex can fly.
  • Often called “water bugs” or “black beetles”.
  • Survive well outdoors even in cold weather.
  • Enter buildings down low (sliding doors, floor drains).
  • Stay in crawl spaces, basements and the first floor generally.
  • Feed on food and decaying matter, but prefer starchy food.

Species 04: German Cockroach

Cockroach
Tan German cockroach with two dark pronotal stripes
Field photo — German CockroachSPEC. CR-04

Identification & habits

  • Adults about ½ – 5/8 inch long.
  • Light brown to tan.
  • Two dark, almost parallel stripes running lengthwise on the pronotal shield (most identifying feature).
  • Most common type of roach found indoors.
  • Challenging to get rid of — they multiply quickly and in great numbers.
  • Prefer moist places like kitchens and bathrooms, but found anywhere food is present.
  • Can feed on almost anything.
  • Sanitation is key to control.
  • Inspect tight cracks and crevices, where they prefer to hang out.

The Control Playbook

By Species Group

Suspect a roach problem?

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