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 its rare.

Identification

• Reddish brown in color and have a yellowish margin on their body
• 1.5 to 2 inches in length

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

Threats

• Not common in homes
• May move indoors during colder months seeking warmer temperatures and food through openings in the foundation

Treatment

• Granular bait formulations in attics and crawl spaces
• Dust in attic and crawl spaces
• Perimeter spray treatments
• Perimeter granular bait treatments