Cockroaches in PA

Updated July 2022

There are over 4,000 types of cockroach species known worldwide, and approximately 55 types are found in the United States. Fortunately, for those of us in Pennsylvania, we only see about five types of cockroaches. Unfortunately for us, however, cockroaches are one of the most common household pests and are more than just a nuisance. Do you know which invaded your home? Use this guide on the types of cockroaches found in PA to help you identify your invader.

Types of Cockroaches in PA

German Cockroaches

German cockroaches are approximately 1/2″ to 5/8″ long. They have wings but rarely fly as they prefer to run. They have oval-shaped bodies with six legs.

German cockroaches tend to crowd together, so you might see brown spotting left in areas where they congregate. This type of cockroach protects its egg cases, and the females carry the eggs until right before they hatch. During this time, the females tend to stay hidden, so don’t rely on spotting one to identify your infestation.

Oriental Cockroach

This type of cockroach ranges from 1″ to 1-1/4″ in length—nearly double a German cockroach! They are dark brown to reddish-brown. The males have wings but are unable to fly.

You are most likely to find this type of cockroach outside in May, June, and July when the adults are most active. They tend to be much slower than other types of cockroaches.

American Cockroach

You won’t miss an American cockroach! Growing 1-1/2″ to 2″ in length, this is one big bug. They have reddish-brown wings and figure-eight markings on their thoraxes. This cockroach is also called a water bug or palmetto bug.

This cockroach is quick, so don’t be surprised if you see one scurrying into the dark. They leave behind droppings that are often mistaken as mouse droppings, so you might not know at first which unwelcomed pest is infiltrating your space. Another clue to an American cockroach infestation is a musty smell caused by pheromones. If you have a sensitive nose, you might pick out the unpleasant odor.

Brown-banded Cockroach

These light brown cockroaches grow to be approximately 1/2″ in length (smaller than other varieties) and have fully developed wings. As the name suggests, they have two distinctive brown bands along their wings and abdomens.

This type of cockroach is often found lurking in your kitchen cabinets and bathrooms. It has a long lifespan of 206 days, allowing the pest to reproduce nearly exponentially. Because of its small stature, the brown-banded cockroach can be harder to spot.

An Occasional Visitor: The Smokybrown Cockroach

While typically found in southeastern states, the smokybrown cockroach sometimes makes its appearance in Pennsylvania. This cockroach grows to be 1-1/2″ in length. They are a dark mahogany brown color. This type of cockroach is a strong flier with wings that extend beyond its body.

This cockroach is often found outdoors, searching for food at night. If they come inside, you are most likely to find them in your basement.

Shared Characteristics of Cockroaches in PA and Beyond

The different types of cockroaches might have traits that make them unique, but there are a few characteristics they share:

• They aren’t just a nuisance pest. They can cause severe allergy symptoms and may spread bacteria like salmonella.
• They are likely in your house to find food, like yours that is improperly stored or your pet’s food.
• They are nocturnal and excellent hiders.

Green Pest Solutions Knows All About the Types of Cockroaches in PA

There’s an old saying that goes “for every cockroach you see, there are 100 more you don’t.” Quite a scary quote for people who find one but very possible because of the quick reproductive cycle of this pest. With an average incubation rate of 28 days, you don’t want to delay if you see a cockroach! Call Green Pest Solutions today for help preventing or addressing a cockroach infestation.