Identifying Cockroaches in Nashville, TN

German Cockroach

First off, we have the German cockroach. This is the most common type found around the world, and yes, we have them right here in Nashville. These cockroaches can set up shop in your home, as well as restaurants, hotels, nursing homes, food processing facilities and bars. You will know it’s a German cockroach by its brown or tan coloring, parallel stripes on their backs, and distinct oval shape. They have wings but can’t fly, and prefer warm, dark places. They only come out at night and will scatter when the lights are flipped on. You need consistent action and an aggressive pest control approach to the German cockroach for any chance of successful eradication.

American Cockroach

The largest of all the species, the American cockroach is also known as a water bug, palmetto bug or Bombay canary. It is reddish brown in color, featuring a yellow figure eight pattern on its head. They have six legs and an oval shape and can grow bigger than two inches. They have wings and are able to fly in short bursts. You may suspect an infestation if you find droppings in dim areas, identified by blunt ends and side ridges. These droppings are easily mistaken for droppings of a mouse or other rodent, which is why it’s important to call a professional to be sure.

Brown Banded Cockroach

These are a smaller species of invasive cockroaches, earning their name from two light brown bands prominent on their dark brown bodies. They like to hide in kitchen cabinets and bathrooms, and even can be found behind hanging photo frames. While they only live about 200 days, they produce extremely quickly, laying 14 egg capsules containing up to 18 eggs each. This cockroach is mostly nocturnal, but don't be surprised to spot one in the daytime.

Oriental Cockroach

Oriental cockroaches are believed to be African in origin even though their name suggests otherwise. This is also one of the larger cockroach species, also known as water bugs, for their love of damp areas. Sometimes they are referred to as black beetle cockroaches due to their sleek, dark and smooth bodies. They get into your house through gaps, underneath siding, and through pipes from sewers and drains. Their bodies are shiny black or a dark reddish-brown color. You may have an infestation if you notice a strong musty odor, as Oriental cockroaches secrete chemicals as a way of communicating with one another.

PureGuard Pest Control in Nashville TN

You may assume all cockroaches look the same: oval and black. While some are, many aren’t. It’s important to know exactly what different species look like so you can come up with a plan of control and prevention. Cockroach identification can be tricky if you don’t know what to look for. Call us and schedule an appointment today!

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