American cockroaches are fairly easy to distinguish from other species. They are large pests, measuring up to 2 ¼ inches, making them the largest cockroaches in the United States. They have flat, oval-shaped bodies, reddish-brown coloration, and a yellow figure-8 pattern on their backs. Like all cockroaches, they have six spiny legs, two antennae, and two small rear appendages called cerci. Their shiny wings stack on their backs.
Yes. American cockroaches have functional wings. However, they don’t fly well, so they won’t stay airborne for long. Typically, they move from high to low elevations, using their wings mainly to slow their descent.
No. American and German cockroaches differ in several ways:
Both species are significant pests and pose the same health concerns when they infest homes or businesses.
American cockroaches usually live one to two years, depending on environmental conditions. When provided with warmth, moisture, and food, they can easily survive for more than a year. A female American cockroach can produce several egg capsules in one year, each containing multiple eggs.
American cockroaches have a broad diet, which contributes to their persistence as pests. They consume many substances not typically considered food, such as:
They also feed on human and pet food, whether fresh or decomposing. Protecting your food is only one step toward eliminating their food sources. Sanitation and trash management are equally important.
Yes. Because they consume waste materials and decomposing organic matter, American cockroaches can transmit diseases to humans.
It’s essential to address cockroach infestations quickly and effectively. They aren’t just nuisance pests.
American cockroaches can live anywhere inside a home. No single location is more prone to infestation than others.
They often inhabit pantries and kitchens to access food debris, packaged goods, pet food, and moisture from sinks. You’ll find them under and inside appliances, inside cabinetry voids, within walls, and beneath floors.
They also occupy bathrooms, feeding on skin debris, hair, toothpaste, other insects, and human waste. They drink water droplets from sinks, tubs, and showers. Common hiding spots include sink and tub cabinetry, walls, flooring, and ceilings.
In attics, they seek warmth and feed on materials such as book bindings, clothing fabrics, cardboard, and other insects.
You could have hundreds or even thousands of American cockroaches in your home without knowing it. They are elusive. Seeing them during the day often signals a severe infestation. If you don’t see them, look for hidden signs such as:
You might also detect their scent, which many describe as musty, oily, slightly sweet, and earthy.
We recommend hiring a professional. American cockroaches often resist standard control materials. A licensed pest control professional will apply the appropriate treatments using strict protocols and will monitor the results to ensure effectiveness.
You can take several steps to keep cockroaches out. We suggest:
For greater protection, consider a pest control service plan. Routine exterior treatments reduce roach populations and create a barrier that discourages insects from entering. Contact us if you’d like to learn more about how this works.
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