The Most Common Types of Cockroaches in Pennsylvania
There are 4 primary types of cockroaches in Pennsylvania that can be found scurrying around a home, and the best way to control them is to first identify them. You may think all cockroaches are the same – pests. While that is correct, some species can fly whereas others cannot.
In this post we’ll help you identify which cockroaches are causing you discomfort, so you can find the best way to clear the infestation.
How Do Cockroaches Get Into Homes?
A common question asked is where do cockroaches come from when they enter a home? Sometimes cockroaches can unfortunately get a ride to your house from grocery bags, or even luggage from travel. Another common way is through door and window openings, along with holes in shared walls.
German Cockroaches
German cockroaches are the most commonly found species in Pennsylvania. These pests often enter homes through small cracks or crevices and can be found in:
- Basements: in humid areas, in cracks, or around drains
- Kitchens: around the sink and the dishwasher
- Bathrooms: behind toilets, damp areas
Displaying a light brown tint, these critters range from 1/2 to 5/8 inches in size. Despite having wings, German cockroaches do not fly like the American cockroaches.
American Cockroaches
Adult American cockroaches are commonly found outside, but make no mistake, they can invade homes and places of business. They tend to occupy:
- Cities: near dumpsters and cluttered areas of debris
- Drains and sewers: crawling up the plumbing, they’ll enter through bathroom or kitchen drains
- Basements: in humid areas, in cracks, or around drains
American cockroaches can measure up to 1.6 inches and have a reddish brown tint. They can fly, but not very far distances.
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Oriental Cockroaches
When you hear the name “water bug” in a pest discussion, they’re likely referring to Oriental cockroaches. This kind of cockroach is known for its like of dark, damp surfaces, so it’s often found in:
- Basements: in humid areas, in cracks, or around drains
- Crawl spaces: especially if there’s moisture or decaying organic matter present
- Drains and sewers: crawling up the plumbing, they’ll enter through bathroom or kitchen drains
- Garages or utility rooms: especially if these rooms are damp or have plumbing fixtures or appliances that produce moisture
Oriental cockroaches measure about 1 inch to 1.25 inches in length, and they have a black, silky color.
Brown-Banded Cockroaches
Like their name suggests, Brown-banded cockroaches have a light-brown tint along with dark colored bands. Common places to find these pests are:
- Dry areas in the home: in kitchen cabinets, storage closets
- Behind home decorations: behind paintings, wallpaper
- Home furnishings: behind couches, office desks
Brown-banded cockroaches are slightly smaller than the oriental cockroach, measuring around a half inch.
To help prevent a cockroach infestation at home, remember to always clean up spills and crumbs, and do your best to not leave dirty dishes in the sink. Making sure that all of your water pipes are properly sealed, too, will help stop bugs from coming in through cracks.
If you are encountering cockroach species at home, please contact Green Giant. Our technicians will help get rid of these pests and keep them away.