Oriental Cockroach Identification Guide
Quick Facts About Oriental Cockroaches
Oriental cockroaches are one of the larger cockroach species commonly found in Tennessee homes. Often mistaken for “water bugs” or “black beetles,” these pests are attracted to damp, dark places and can pose significant health risks to your family.
- Size: Males 25mm, Females 32mm in length
- Color: Glossy black to dark reddish-brown
- Shape: Oval, with distinct differences between males and females
- Active Season: Most active in warmer months
What Do Oriental Cockroaches Look Like?
Oriental cockroaches have distinctive features that set them apart from other cockroach species. Males are smaller with three-quarter-length wings that expose the last few abdominal segments, while females are larger with wing pads covering only the first few segments of their bodies. Neither gender can fly despite having wings or wing pads.
Key Identifying Features
- Glossy black to dark reddish-brown coloring
- Males have partial wings and visible abdominal segments
- Females are larger with short wing pads
- Both genders are incapable of flight
Health & Property Risks
Health Concerns
Oriental cockroaches can pose several serious health risks to your family through bacteria, viruses, and parasites they carry on their bodies.
- Spread dangerous bacteria and viruses
- Trigger asthma through shed skin
- Create unsanitary conditions in living spaces
Property Damage
These pests can create unsanitary conditions and damage your property through their presence and feeding habits.
- Contaminate food and surfaces
- Leave behind musty odors
- Create unsanitary conditions in basements and crawl spaces
Where to Look for Oriental Cockroaches in Your Home
Oriental cockroaches typically enter homes through gaps under doors, beneath siding, and along utility lines. During warmer months, look for them:
- Near gutters and moist landscaping
- Around sewer drains at night
- In damp basements and crawl spaces
- Behind pipes and in drain areas
When to Call Professional Help
If you notice signs of oriental cockroaches in your home, particularly their distinctive egg capsules or a musty odor, it’s time to call for professional assistance. These pests typically appear in colonies, and seeing one usually indicates more are hiding nearby.
