Although most people associate cockroaches with dirty settings, most species are not dangerous and can be found globally in different environments.
There are at least 4,000 cockroach species globally. Of these, only thirty can thrive in human settlements and are prevalent pests. The remaining number is regarded as ecologically relevant or harmless.
In addition, 55 different cockroach species live in the US, and only five are considered nuisances and household pests in Pennsylvania.
This blog will help you understand the five common cockroaches in PA, where they can be found, and everything you need to know about them.
Common Cockroaches in PA
German Cockroach (Blattella germanica)
The German cockroach is one of the common cockroaches in PA. It measures half an inch and has wings, which it rarely uses (it prefers running).
This cockroach species has a pale to medium brown complexion with two dark stripes behind their heads.
Additionally, German cockroaches prefer warm and humid areas and can be found in kitchens and bathrooms.
Read More: How to Get Rid of German Cockroaches Overnight
American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana)
The American cockroach is the largest species and can grow up to 2-3 inches. They are reddish-brown and have a distinct yellow figure-eight pattern behind their heads.
In addition, American cockroaches are fast runners and prefer warm, humid areas.
A pungent musty smell will alert you of an American cockroach infestation.
Read More: How To Get Rid of American Cockroaches
Brown-Banded Cockroach (Supella longipalpa)
Brown-banded cockroaches are the smallest species, growing up to half an inch in length.
They are light brown and can be differentiated from German roaches by the two bands running across the bottom of their wings and abdomen.
Brown-banded cockroaches have fully developed wings and can be found in bathrooms and kitchen cabinets.
Read More: How to Get Rid of Brown-Banded Cockroaches
Oriental Cockroaches (Blatta orientalis)
Oriental cockroaches, also referred to as black beetles, water bugs (also read “Do water bugs fly?“), or shad roaches, can be found in almost every part of the United States.
The female oriental cockroaches can grow up to 1 ¼ inch while the males grow up to 1 inch. The male has wings covering ¾ of its body, while the female has conspicuous useless wing pads, both cannot fly.
Read More: I Found an Oriental Cockroach In My House: How to Get Rid of Them
Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach (Parcoblatta pennsylvanica)
The Pennsylvania wood roach is native to Pennsylvania. It can be found in tree stumps, hollow trees, and wood piles.
Usually, Pennsylvania wood cockroaches are outdoor pests. However, they can invade your home accidentally inside firewood or through open windows and doors at night.
Shared Traits Among Cockroaches in PA
These five cockroach species are unique in their own ways. However, they share some characteristics. For instance:
- They are good at hiding and are nocturnal pests
- They infest homes looking for food, warmth, water, and shelter
- They are a nuisance and pose a significant health risk. They can spread diseases and bacteria like salmonella and cause severe allergic reactions like asthma attacks and skin rashes.
Are Cockroaches in PA Dangerous?
Yes, cockroaches in PA are dangerous.
It doesn’t matter what type of cockroaches you are dealing with; cockroaches can be a health threat. Research indicates that they carry 33 types of bacteria, including E. coli, streptococcus, and staphylococcus.
Besides, roaches can enter your kitchen, contaminate food and food preparation areas, and spread salmonella, the bacteria that causes food poisoning.
Read More: Eliminate Roaches From Your Kitchen
In addition, roaches are known to carry six parasitic worms, and their saliva, droppings, shed skin, and decaying body parts can trigger allergic reactions like asthma attacks and skin rashes.
Signs of a Cockroach Infestation
Cockroaches pose a serious health risk, but unfortunately, most people don’t even know they have a cockroach problem until it is too late.
Look for the following signs of an infestation if you suspect you have cockroaches in your home:
Egg Cases
Finding egg casings is a clear indication you have a cockroach infestation. These casings are called oothecae, and a single capsule can hold at least 30 eggs.
Smear Marks
Cockroaches can leave behind dark and irregular smears in areas where they spend most of their time.
Roach Droppings
You can find roach droppings in cabinets, cupboards, sinks, and behind large appliances. Depending on the type of roach, the dropping might resemble mouse dropping or coffee grounds.
Pungent Smell
Areas with a cockroach infestation have a musty smell caused by the chemicals left behind in their feces (pheromones). This smell attracts other cockroaches, and it can be intense depending on the size of the infestation.
How to Prevent a Cockroach Infestation
If you have dealt with a cockroach problem, you can confirm that they are resilient and hard to eliminate.
So, the best way to prevent a cockroach issue is to stop them from entering your home. Make your home unwelcoming, inhabitable, and hard to get in.
Start by:
- Cleaning up your home and keeping it tidy
- Clearing out hiding areas like drains, basements, cabinets and cupboards, and cardboard boxes
- Fixing leaky pipes; roaches need little food to survive but cannot go for long without water
- Seal any opening between door frames and doors
- Store food in tightly sealed plastic or glass containers or refrigerator
- Make sure tire swings, flower pots, and tree holes are not collecting water
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches in Your Home
If it is too late to prevent an infestation, you can try the following ways to get rid of roaches:
- Use boric acid powder
- Gel baits
- Kill cockroaches with borax
- Silica aerogel
- Insecticidal cockroach sprays
- Bait traps
- Get the help of a pest control expert
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Are Roaches Common In PA?
Yes, roaches are common in PA.
Cockroaches are one of the most prevalent pests in PA. Since they are adaptable, they can live anywhere.
Should I Be Worried If I Find a Cockroach?
Yes, you should be worried to find a cockroach.
Keeping in mind that roaches are social insects, seeing one in your home usually means more living under your roof.
What Do Cockroaches Look Like in PA?
Cockroaches in PA vary in size, appearance, and complexion. However, they share various traits like having six legs, long antennae, and being nuisances.
What Species Are Found in the Neighboring States?
The species found in the neighboring states include German, American, Oriental, and Pennsylvania wood roaches. Knowing which other species may make their way over the border may help you keep an eye out for possible problems.
Additional species are not common in Maryland and Ohio cockroaches. Also, New York is home to most of the same cockroach species. However, the Pennsylvania wood roach is not as common.
Unfortunately, the same types of roaches can be found in New Jersey. However, you may also find Surinam and spotted Mediterranean roaches as well.
