Cockroaches have existed for millions of years, and there are thousands of species of them located all over the world. In more recent history, cockroaches have been long-despised pests that plague residential and commercial properties. Cockroaches typically thrive in temperatures of 70 degrees and above, but they are also able to survive in freezing temperatures (and even a week without their heads!)
The main issue that homeowners have with cockroaches, other than them being in and around their homes, is that they carry harmful germs in the spines of their exoskeletons, which they can then spread through food contamination.
The only way to ensure that cockroaches won’t invade your home is through pest control and management services from a trusted source. But, with over 70 species of cockroaches in the United States alone, it’s important that you have a rough idea of which cockroaches you’re dealing with. Follow along below as we detail the most common types of cockroaches found in the U.S. and how you can get rid of these unwelcome guests.
Some of the most common types of cockroaches found in the United States are:
American Cockroach
The American Cockroach is found across the United States. It is reddish-brown in appearance and features a yellowish figure-eight pattern on the back of its head. This species of roach can be found in sewers and basements, especially around pipes and drains.
German Cockroach
German Cockroaches are oval in shape and are a light brown or tannish color with two dark stripes located on their backs. This species of cockroach is found across the United States and is perhaps the most common of the cockroaches. German Cockroaches can usually be found throughout structures, but they are generally drawn to warm and humid locations.
Oriental Cockroaches
Oriental Cockroaches, sometimes called Water Bugs or Black Beetle Cockroaches, are large, very dark in color, and shiny in appearance. You can find these cockroaches in the Northeastern part of the United States. Oriental Cockroaches are found in sewers and generally enter structures through drains. They can also be found in warm basements and crawl spaces.
Brown-Banded Cockroaches
Brown-Banded Cockroaches are brown and, as the name would suggest, have pronounced banding on their wings and bodies. This cockroach can be found throughout the United States and thrive in the same habitat as the German Cockroach. But, instead of warm and humid locations, Brown-Banded Cockroaches can be found in high, dry areas.
Smoky Brown Cockroaches
Smoky Brown Cockroaches are dark brown in color with black backs and heads. This cockroach can be found in the Southeastern United States. Smoky Brown Cockroaches are excellent fliers and are attracted to light, even though they are mostly nocturnal. They generally house themselves in dark, damp places once they are inside a structure.
Many cockroach species can be found throughout the United States. Some varieties, like the Oriental Cockroach and the Smoky Brown Cockroach, live in specific regions and generally do not thrive outside of them.
Wondering how to get rid of cockroaches? The best way to get rid of cockroaches, and prevent more from coming onto your property, is to practice good sanitation. Additionally, take some time every year to seal cracks or crevices on the outside of the home and eliminate moisture buildup in basements, attics, and crawl spaces. If you suspect that you have a cockroach in your home, pay close attention to the areas that build up the most moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms and under appliances and sinks.
If you’ve noticed that your cockroach problem isn’t getting better, however, you should consider calling in the professionals.