Out of all the cockroaches, we’d have to say the most patriotic award goes to the American Cockroach otherwise known as the Palmetto bug. The pest you find hanging out in your Air Jordans, scrambling out of the burger bun bag at your 4th of July BBQ, or hiding in your Amazon Prime boxes. The American Cockroach also happens to be the largest of the infesting cockroaches (with a name like that, no surprise there!).
Contrary to the title, but similar to most Americans, the American Cockroach is technically not native to North America. They’ve been linked to having arrived aboard ships from other countries. According to the University of Florida Entomology & Nematology Department, the pests congregate in buildings throughout Florida, especially in commercial and large buildings such as restaurants, grocery stores, bakeries, and anywhere food is prepared and stored.
If you think you might have an American Cockroach infestation, the first step is to call for an inspection. Call Now: (321) 499-9114 or fill out our contact form. See below to determine if you have an infestation.
What American Cockroaches look like: Well, they aren’t cute. According to PestWorld, Adult American cockroaches average between 1.4” to 1.6” (35-41mm) in length, but they can grow to exceed 2”. American cockroaches are reddish-brown in color with a yellow band that outlines the area behind their head. Both males and females have wings and can fly short distances.
Do American Cockroaches feed on humans? According to UF, the American cockroach is an omnivorous and opportunistic feeder. It consumes decaying organic matter but is a scavenger and will eat almost anything. It prefers sweets but has also been observed eating paper, boots, hair, bread, fruit, book bindings, fish, peanuts, old rice, putrid sake, the soft part on the inside of animal hides, cloth, and dead insects.
How to know if you have an American Cockroach Infestation: There are a few signs to tell if you have an American Cockroach problem. First, you see the roaches scrambling from dark places. They are quick so you may see them fleeing across your floor or walls. Second, they leave a trail of their droppings. These droppings can easily be identified by a pest specialist. Third, you may see some egg capsules. They are normally found next to food sources. Finally, you can smell them. Normally people say it’s a musty smell or particular odor.
How to prevent American Cockroaches: Like American’s, the cockroaches are resilient. Their survival instincts are impressive, which makes them difficult for homeowners to rid of them on their own. A clean and sanitary home will be less inviting for American Cockroaches, free of clutter and crumbs, cleaning the dishes, keeping pet food away, avoiding food messes.
How Does Green Wing Treat an American Cockroach Infestations? Roach infestations can get out of hand quickly and seriously impact your family’s quality of life. Without quick treatment, a roach problem will only cause more harm. Luckily, these pests can be controlled starting with the first visit. We create a follow-up schedule for your home or business to keep these pests at bay. Click here to learn more about our process. Life is good pest-free!
Your bug guy,
Jeff Daniels