What Do Cockroaches Look Like
Most of the cockroaches in the Mid-Atlantic states and through the northeast look similar. They have flat, oval-shaped bodies with long legs, antennae, and wings. Determining what kind of cockroach you have comes down to a few key differences. The most common species include:
- American Cockroaches – The largest of the four, this pest is reddish-brown, an inch and a half long, and has a faded yellow pattern on its neck.
Picture of American Cockroach - German Cockroaches – Their tan to light brown bodies are a little over half an inch in length with two dark, parallel lines that start at the back of the head and end at the wing base.
Picture of German Cockroach - Oriental Cockroaches – Black with a glossy sheen, these sluggish insects grow up to an inch in length.
Picture of Oriental Cockroach
How To Identify A Cockroach
When trying to identify a cockroach, consider what they look like as well as where you find them. Most prefer warm, moist areas such as basements, floor drains, compost piles, and bathtubs. On the other hand, the German cockroach avoids damp places, preferring dry pantries, cabinets, or dressers.
One thing to keep in mind about the different types of cockroaches is whether or not they can fly. Most of them have fully developed wings that may cover the length of their bodies. However, only American and brown-banded cockroaches tend to jump or fly when disturbed.
Cockroach Control
Before you attempt to manage an infestation, make sure you identify the cockroaches accurately. Certain methods will not work on some species and could make the situation worse. Call Western Pest Services to effectively remove cockroaches from your home or business and prevent further infestation.