One of the most dreaded pests you can find in your home is the cockroach. While there are over 4,000 species of the cockroach worldwide, there are three common types found in the U.S.
American Cockroach
Color: Reddish-Brown
Characteristics: Light colored edges to body; wings appear longer than the body
Length: 1 to 1 ½ inches
Lives: In warm, moist areas. A roach infestation may often be found in basements, around sewers, and around other areas of moisture.
German Cockroach
Color: Light Brown/Tan
Characteristics: Dark lengthwise stripes on the head
Length: ¼ to 5/8 inch maximum
Lives: Small cracks and crevices inside kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where moisture is present. When a roach infestation is very bad, they may be found throughout an entire home. This is the most invasive species.
Oriental Cockroach
Color: Dark/Oily Black
Characteristics: At first glance appears to be wingless
Length: Rather large at 1 inch
Lives: In dark, moist areas. Found near sewer drains, pipes, wet basements, under porches, or inside crawl spaces.