Common Types of Roaches in Fort Myers Homes

The last thing you want to see is a cockroach scurrying across your kitchen floor, but unfortunately, Fort Myers’ warm and humid climate is a haven for these unwelcome guests! Luckily, knowing which types of roaches are most common in Fort Myers homes can help you keep them out of your home and know what action to take if you spot one!

Types of Roaches in Fort Myers

American Cockroach

The American cockroach, also known as the “Palmetto Bug”, is one of the largest roaches you’ll find in Florida. These bugs can grow up to 2 inches long and are a reddish-brown color. You’ll often find them in dark, damp places like exterior ornamental areas, sewers, and under appliances. They’re not picky eaters and will consume anything from food crumbs to decaying matter.

German Cockroach

German cockroaches are small but mighty. Measuring about ½ inch long, these light brown roaches are the most common species to invade homes. They multiply fast, so spotting one could mean there’s already an infestation. They love warm, humid areas, especially kitchens and bathrooms, where they can find food and water easily.

Brown-Banded Cockroach

Brown-banded roaches are about the same size as German cockroaches but have distinctive brown bands across their wings. Unlike other roaches, they prefer drier areas and are often found in living rooms or bedrooms – even inside our furniture! They also tend to hide in high places like shelves and cabinets.

How to Prevent a Roach Infestation

Cockroaches are more than just creepy—they can carry bacteria and trigger allergies. Here are a few more tips to keep them out of your Florida home:

• Regularly sweep, mop, and wipe down surfaces to eliminate crumbs and spills that can attract roaches.
• Keep your kitchen clean, store food in airtight containers, and empty the trash regularly.
• Declutter your home, especially areas like closets, and vacuum regularly to remove potential hiding spots.
• Roaches love garbage, so make sure your trash cans have tight lids and are emptied regularly.
• Repair any plumbing issues and reduce humidity in your home as roaches are highly attracted to water.
• Consider using motion sensor outdoor lights as it can attract roaches that fly, such as the American roach.
• Seal any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and plumbing, and keep your home dry by fixing leaks.

While roaches are a common pest in Fort Myers, taking steps to keep your home clean and less attractive to them can make all the difference! If you notice signs of an infestation, consider calling your local pest control company near you to help get things under control. These professionals will provide you with a thorough inspection, determine entry points, and recommend the best treatment and prevention plan for your roach situation.