American CockroachAlso 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.

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