American Cockroach (Periplaneta America)
You may know the American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) as a waterbug or even a palmetto bug. Whatever you call it, it is one of the largest cockroaches in many parts of the world. This roach is also among NC and VA's most common cockroach species.
American Cockroach vs German Cockroach
- Appearance: American cockroaches are one of the largest cockroach species, measuring about 1.5 to 2 inches in length. Reddish-brown in color with a yellowish figure-eight pattern on the back of the head. German cockroaches are 1/2 to 5/8 inches long. They are light brown or tan with two dark stripes running down the back of the head.
- Nesting Habits: American cockroaches prefer warm and humid environments. They typically nest outdoors in moist areas such as mulch, leaf piles, and sewer systems. However, they can also infest indoor areas like kitchens and bathrooms. German cockroaches prefer warm and humid environments and are primarily indoor pests. They commonly nest in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where food and water are readily available.
- Diet: American cockroaches are omnivorous and feed on a wide range of organic materials, including food crumbs, garbage, decaying plants, and other insects. German cockroaches are scavengers and feed on a variety of foods, including crumbs, grease, sweets, and starches. They are known for their ability to exploit food sources in homes and restaurants.
- Damage: While American cockroaches are not as common indoors as German cockroaches, they can still cause contamination by spreading pathogens and triggering allergies in some people. German cockroaches can contaminate food supplies, spread pathogens, and trigger allergic reactions.
- Behavior: Both roaches are nocturnal. American cockroaches are more attracted to sources of food and moisture. German cockroaches prefer to hide in cracks, crevices, and other tight spaces during the day.
How to get rid of American Cockroaches
Getting rid of American cockroaches can be challenging due to their resilient nature and ability to hide in various places.
- Keep your home clean and free of food crumbs and spills. Cockroaches need access to food or water.
- Fix any leaking pipes or moisture problems.
- Seal cracks and crevices around doors, windows, pipes, and other entry points.
- Check screens for rips and tears and repair if damaged.
- Remove any cardboard boxes you may have for storage.
- Check your groceries when you bring them home.
- Use glue traps for monitoring.
- Keep your yard trimmed and ensure no shrubs or trees touch the structure.
- Contact a professional pest control company like Four Seasons Pest Control - we have dealt with many water bugs in NC and VA!
American cockroaches are primarily an outdoor insect. They can become a nuisance if they end up trapped inside a structure searching for food, water, and shelter. Choosing a pest provider like Four Seasons Pest Control is key to keeping them out of your home. Call us today for a free quote on (NC) 252-453-3601 or (VA) 757-729-1744.
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What Does an American Cockroach Look Like?
The American cockroach size is relatively large. Ranging from 1.6 to 2.1 inches long.
They are reddish-brown in color and have a distinctive yellow border on the back of their head.
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Can American Cockroaches Fly?
Adult American cockroaches do have fully developed wings. These wings extend beyond their abdomen. They do not fly well but use their wings for gliding.
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Where do American Cockroaches Live?
These roaches prefer warm and humid environments. Commonly found outdoors in places such as sewers, crawl spaces, and mulch beds. Found also in commercial establishments such as restaurants, bakeries, and grocery stores.
These roaches are highly adaptable and can survive in a variety of conditions.
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When are American Cockroaches Active?
American roaches are primarily nocturnal and are active mainly at night. They feed on feces, decaying plant matter, garbage, food scraps, and even dead insects, which are part of their diet.
You will often find American roaches in high moisture areas such as leaky pipes, drains, and condensation areas.
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What is the American Cockroach Life Cycle?
The reproduction cycle is relatively slow compared to some other species.
Females produce egg sacks (oothecae), which contain multiple eggs. Each egg capsule contains an average of 16 eggs. The American cockroach egg sacks are in hidden areas, corners, or debris.
The average lifespan of a female varies between 90-706 days. A male is 90-362 days. The wide variation in lifespan relies on the available living conditions and food sources.
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Are There any Health Risks with American Cockroaches?
These roaches live in dirty conditions, often infecting food and surfaces with bacteria they have picked up. Wiping down surfaces removes any bacteria they pick up. American roaches produce allergens and other pathogens triggering asthma and other allergies.