What You Need To Know About Oriental Cockroaches

Did you know that there are thousands of cockroach species around the world? While the German cockroach is the most common species in the United States, the oriental cockroach is becoming more common throughout the northern U.S. 

In this blog, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about oriental cockroaches, including what they look like and common behaviors to look out for. We’ll also give you some tips for preventing an oriental cockroach infestation as well as steps to take if you’re already experiencing one. 

Oriental cockroaches have unique behaviors that separate them from other cockroach species. While most roach species can fly, oriental cockroaches are unable to, although when looking at a male oriental cockroach, you will find short wings. 

Unlike some other pests, oriental cockroaches are an incredibly hardy species. They can survive up to a month without food and up to a few weeks without water. They’re also not picky eaters — they’ll feed on food scraps, decaying organic matter, paper, or almost anything edible. 

Oriental cockroaches are primarily nocturnal and typically roam around during the evening hours and overnight. During the day, oriental cockroaches tend to hide in dark, damp areas including basements, floor drains, and under or around sinks.

Recognizing the signs of an oriental cockroach infestation is the key to safeguarding your home against a broader infestation. While oriental cockroaches prefer remaining outside your home, they will enter your home in search of food, water, or shelter in the winter months. Here are a few signs to look out for: 

• Droppings: The droppings of oriental cockroaches resemble black pepper and are irregularly shaped. They’re most often found in areas where the cockroaches feed. 
• Smells: Oriental cockroaches are known for a strong, musty odor due to chemicals secreted by the insects. As an oriental cockroach infestation grows, so does the odor in your home.
• Sightings: Seeing oriental cockroaches is a clear sign of a growing infestation, especially if you spot them during the day. You’re most likely to find them crawling up and out of drains in your bathroom, or in warm, moist environments like crawl spaces or basements.

With oriental cockroaches, preventing an infestation is much easier than treating an existing one. Here are a few tips to keep your home free of these pests:

If you come across oriental cockroaches, it’s important to take action quickly. These insects are disease carriers and can contaminate food or cause food poisoning. They can also cause allergic reactions and transfer bacteria and viruses. Here are a few steps to take to get rid of oriental cockroaches around your house: