American Cockroaches

What do American cockroaches look like?

American cockroaches are the largest structure-infesting cockroaches in Florida. They are reddish-brown and have a yellow “figure 8” marking on the shield located behind their heads.

Adults grow to 1 ½ and 2 inches in length, have wings, and fly short distances. However, like most roaches, they move quickly from place to place using their legs.

Why are American roaches called Palmetto bugs?

American roaches are also called palmetto bugs, as they are commonly found living on or around palmetto trees. Though American cockroaches happily live outside, they won’t hesitate to move inside homes and businesses seeking moisture or food.

Where do American cockroaches nest?

American cockroaches have high moisture needs. Outside, they live in garden areas, mulch, in or on trees, or around sewers or drains.

While looking for food or shelter, American cockroaches move inside through gaps under door frames, damaged trim around windows and doors, open windows, vents, drains, and other openings they discover. Once inside, they will move to dark, moist areas, such as water pipes, sinks, bathtubs, toilets, sump pump openings, and other sources of moisture.

American cockroaches are nocturnal. They hide during the day and become active at night, scavenging for food.

Are American cockroaches dangerous?

When dealing with American cockroaches, it's important to keep in mind that before invading your yard or home, they were roaming around and feeding on decaying plant and animal matter in unsanitary places.

As they travel and feed, cockroaches can pick up various bacteria, human pathogens, and parasites. Once inside a home, they can spread these contaminants to food, dishes, food-prep areas, and other surfaces, posing a risk of illness to you and your family.

Allergies to American cockroach excrement and shed skins are common, and can cause symptoms such as runny noses, itchy eyes, and even skin rashes. They are also known to trigger allergy attacks, especially in young children or those with respiratory issues.

American cockroaches produce pungent secretions that can affect the taste of food stored inside your home or business.

How do I get rid of American cockroaches?

American cockroaches quickly and easily adapt to any environment. This adaptability makes it challenging to control these pests. For this reason and because they are harmful insects, we recommend calling an experienced pest control company at the first sign of a cockroach infestation. 

At Lindsey Pest Services, we’ve been providing effective cockroach control for homes and businesses since 1957 and continue to eradicate these vile pests from structures today. To find out how our team of highly trained and fully licensed pest control specialists can help you exterminate roaches, reach out today!