Differences Between German and American Cockroaches

cockroach sitting on a surface

Before you reach for the can of bug spray, it’s time for a little Roach Control 101. The first step in getting rid of roaches is arming yourself with knowledge. McCall Service, serving Northern Florida, would like to teach you the basics about this pest. Get started by learning the differences between the most common species in the area: the German and the American cockroach.

Appearance of German Versus American Roaches

At one-and-a-half-to-two inches long, the American cockroach is the biggest cockroach in the United States. Its German counterpart measures a much smaller one-half-to-five-eighths inches long. American cockroaches are reddish-brown with a golden perimeter, while German roaches are brown with two stripes running lengthwise down the thorax.

Where American and German Roaches Are Found

American cockroaches generally prefer to stay outdoors, venturing inside only occasionally for food or warmth. If you do find these pests indoors, it’s usually in one of these damp, dark places:

  • Attics
  • Basements
  • Wall voids
  • Crawlspaces
  • Utility rooms
  • Attics
  • Basements
  • Wall voids
  • Crawlspaces
  • Utility rooms

German cockroaches, on the other hand, are indoor creatures. They’re often found in multi-unit dwellings and gravitate towards warm, secluded areas of the home, like:

  • At counter edges
  • In voids around plumbing
  • Behind and beneath cabinets
  • In the back ends of drawers
  • Beneath or behind appliances
  • In gaps or cracks behind backsplashes
  • At counter edges
  • In voids around plumbing
  • Behind and beneath cabinets
  • In the back ends of drawers
  • Beneath or behind appliances
  • In gaps or cracks behind backsplashes

Cockroaches spread disease and trigger potentially dangerous allergic reactions in some people. Wherever you find them, it’s bet to go with professional pest control as a dependable roach solution.

German Versus American Cockroach Behavior

The biggest difference between these two types of roaches is their reproductive systems. German roaches bear from 160 to 300 babies at once, producing up to 30,000 a year. While the American roach’s reproductive capability pales in comparison, it still produces up to 800 offspring yearly. It isn’t surprising, then, that an infestation of German cockroaches requires more frequent treatments.

Your Roach Solution for Both Species

German and American cockroaches vary dramatically, but there’s one thing they have in common: the mere sight of these pests inspires property owners to call for professional roach control, stat. Get rid of roaches at your home or business in Northern Florida by contacting McCall Service.

Mosquito Graphic

Heard the buzz? Save $50 on your initial monthly mosquito treatments!
LIMITED TIME ONLY

Call Now Button