The American Cockroach

Also known as Palmetto Bugs or Waterbugs, American Cockroaches are the largest cockroach in the U.S. American Cockroaches are considered one of the fastest running insects; they often dart out of sight when someone enters a room, and can fit into small spaces despite their large size. They have been known to fly, but it’s rare. 

Identification

• Reddish brown in color and have a yellowish pattern on the back of their head
• 1.5 to 2 inches in length
• Oval

Environment

• Usually lives in dark, damp areas such as sewers, storm drains, steam tunnels, and outdoors in landscaping and tree holes
• Prefer warm, dark, humid environments in homes such as wall voids, crawl spaces, basements, utility rooms, or attics
• Typically feed on decaying organic matter and a variety of other foods
• Also commonly found in larger commercial buildings such as restaurants, grocery stores, food processing plants, and hospitals
• Infest food storage and food preparation areas

Threats

• Have been known to spread up to 33 kinds of bacteria, 6 kinds of parasitic worms, and at least 7 other kinds of human pathogens
• Carry germs from decaying matter or sewage onto food or food surfaces
• Not common in homes
• May move indoors during colder months seeking warmer temperatures and food through openings in the foundation

Treatment

• Vacuum often
• Keep food in tightly sealed containers
• Take out garbage often.  Dispose of garbage in tightly sealed bags in a tightly secured container outside of the home
• Seal off cracks and crevices that can be used as entrances into your home
• Granular bait formulations in attics and crawl spaces
• Dust in attic and crawl spaces
• Perimeter spray treatments
• Perimeter granular bait treatments

If you spot evidence of cockroaches call a licensed pest professional like Northwest Exterminating as soon as possible.  American cockroaches can lay 10 or more egg cases, each containing 14-16 eggs.  You don’t want this infestation to get out of hand.