American Roach
(Periplaneta americana)
Appearance
American roaches are reddish-brown in color with light markings behind the head.
Size
1 ½- inches in length. This is the largest of the periodomestic cockroaches.
Behavior
Although these are outdoor roaches, they will migrate inside by crawling or flying into structures. They can also enter through the plumbing. Trees or shrubs located alongside buildings, or trees with branches overhanging roofs facilitate the entry of this roach into the home. The life cycle of the American roach averages about 600 days, and each adult female can produce approximately 150 offspring in her lifetime. Both males and females can fly. The American roach is omnivorous, and will eat almost anything. It prefers sweets and has been observed eating paper, boots, hair, bread, fruit, and other dead insects.
Habitat
The American cockroach is often found residing indoors as well as outdoors. It is found mainly in basements, sewers, steam tunnels, and drainage systems. They are also found in moist shady areas outdoors, in yards, hollow trees, wood piles, and mulch. Occasionally American roaches are seen under roof shingles and in attics.
Interesting Facts
American cockroaches can become a public health concern due to their association with human waste and disease and their ability to move from sewers into homes and commercial establishments. At least 22 species of pathogenic human bacteria, virus, fungi, and protozoans, as well as five species of helminthic worms, have been associated with the American cockroach.
Control
Do you live in South Florida and think that this pest may be invading your home? Hulett Environmental Services offers specialty pest control treatments designed to control and eliminate this pest!
