There are many species of cockroach found throughout the world and each varies in their survival methods. Pennsylvania is home to many cockroach species. However, there are five species that are commonly found in homes and other human domains. Stewart Termite & Pest Control will list the common species of cockroach found invading Pennsylvania homes.
American Cockroach Size
One of the largest species found in America is the American cockroach. This species averages between 1 ½ to 2 inches in length or size. Often referred to as the Palmetto bug, this species of cockroach will inhabit palm trees and can be occasionally seen fluttering down using their larger wings. American cockroaches are reddish brown with a yellowish colored boarder that encircles their body. American cockroaches love humid areas and are often found in basements, kitchens and bathrooms. They are drawn to light and often invade homes due to the light illuminating through windows or porch lights.
Brown Banded Cockroaches
One of the smaller species of cockroach is the Brown-banded cockroach, which only reaches about one half inch in length. Brown-banded cockroaches are brown in color with one, or sometimes two, lighter color stripes or bands going across their body. Both female and male Brown-banded cockroaches have wings. However, only males are able to fly. They are most active at night and feed on decaying plants. When they invade a home they are typically seen clustering on ceilings or in attic spaces or are drawn to heat produced by appliance motors.
German Cockroach Infestations
One of the most common species of cockroach found across America is the German cockroach. The German cockroach is also smaller, ranging from ½ to 5/8 of an inch in length. German cockroaches are a light golden bronze color with two dark vertical stripes coming down their head and back, starting from their eyes. German cockroaches will eat anything and love humid areas. They are found in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. They reproduce quickly and must be kept in check.
Are Oriental Cockroaches Harmful?
Another larger species of cockroach is the Oriental cockroach that can reach up to 1 ¼ of an inch in size. They are dark brown or black in color with a shiny surface. The females are wingless where the males have short wings which only cover half of their body. Often called the water bug, Oriental cockroaches love moisture and will immerse themselves in water and are often seen inside sewers. They often crawl up through drains and are frequently found in bathrooms. This species emits a nasty musty odor when they do invade.
Wood Cockroach
The wood cockroach ranges from ¾ to 1 ¼ of an inch in length. They are tan in color. The males have wings and can fly short distances, where the female are wingless. Females are rarely seen. The males will invade homes since they are drawn to light and can be seen around porches or patios at night. The wood cockroach feeds on plant matter and usually invades accidentally. In most cases the wood cockroach prefers to stay outdoors.
Cockroach Control
If your home or commercial business has been infested by one of these common cockroach species, contact Stewart Termite & Pest Control today for all of your pest control needs.