Pest Profile: American Cockroach

They’re a major pest across the United States and a least favorite of many. In this month’s Pest Profile, we’re talking about the American cockroach. Also referred to as the palmetto bug or water bug, this pest may not be the most common roach species, but it is the largest. It also lives the longest, with a lifespan of about two years. ​

Despite its name, the American cockroach isn’t actually native to America at all. Instead, evidence suggests these pests were brought over from Africa on ships in the early 1600s. 

What They Look Like: 
Adult American cockroaches are around 1.4 to 1.6 inches in length, but some can grow to exceed two inches. They are reddish-brown in color with a unique yellow-colored figure-eight marking on the back of their heads. Both males and females have wings and can fly short distances. These wings develop when an American cockroach reaches adulthood. 

Where They Live: 
American cockroaches typically live outdoors. They prefer warm, damp areas, and here in the South can be found in places like flower beds and around trees. In northern regions, you can find them in sewers and drains. If you’ve ever spent time in a major city, chances are you’ve seen your fair share of American cockroaches. 

The ideal temperature for these pests is between 70 and 80 degrees, so Spring and Summer in the South are where they do best. 
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What They Eat: 
Since they generally live outside, you may wonder why American cockroaches are often found inside homes and businesses. That’s because these pests venture indoors to find food and water. They can easily pass under doors if weather stripping is damaged or come in through garages and basement windows. Once inside, these roaches are commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements. 

Outdoors, American cockroaches feed on tiny wood particles, fungi, algae, leaves, and small insects. Indoors, they’ll forage under appliances, in drains, and cabinets. They typically hide out in these places, hoping to find crumbs, scraps of food, and spills. American cockroaches will also eat pet food if it is left out for long periods of time. 

Adult American cockroaches can survive two to three months without food, yet only about a month without water. 

Preventing Cockroaches: 
There are several ways to prevent American cockroaches in your homel. The easiest and most cost-effective way is to hire Pestech of Greenville. We are fully licensed and equipped to handle the problem, whether it be indoors or outdoors. Our quarterly pest control service is recommended for residential and commercial properties to control pests, such as American cockroaches. 

Some other easy ways to help prevent a roach infestation in your home or business include:

1. Never let spills, crumbs, or dirty dishes sit for long periods. 
2. Regularly take out trash in the kitchen and bathrooms. 
3. Don’t let clutter pile up; break down boxes, remove old appliances, and clean out basements regularly. 
4. Fix leaky faucets or showers. 
5. Take up pet food after your pet is done eating, and don’t let it sit out overnight. 
6. Make sure all doors and windows seal properly. 

American cockroaches are incredibly resilient and adaptable. Starting with small steps and trusting Pestech of Greenville will help keep these creepy pests out of your home this summer and all year. 

If you suspect that you already have a roach infestation, we will work to eliminate the problem and quickly keep your property roach-free. Give us a call at 252-353-4760 or email PestechOfGreenville@hotmail.com for a free estimate. Your East Coast pest management professionals are honored to serve you.