Identifying Cockroaches: What Do Common Species Look Like?
In this region, two types of cockroaches are most likely to invade your home or business: American cockroaches and German cockroaches. While they share some physical features, they’re different enough that you can usually tell them apart with a quick look.
- American Cockroaches
These are the larger of the two, growing over two inches long. They have reddish-brown, oval-shaped bodies and a distinctive yellowish figure-eight pattern on their backs. They have six legs, long antennae, and are capable of flying. - German Cockroaches
Much smaller, German cockroaches grow to about half an inch. They’re tan to light brown with two dark parallel stripes running down their backs. Like their larger cousins, they have six legs and long antennae, but they rarely fly despite having wings.
Finding Cockroaches: Where to Look
Cockroaches prefer dark, warm, and moist areas—places where they won’t be disturbed. Knowing where to check can help you spot signs of activity early.
Common hiding spots include:
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- Under sinks
- Inside drains
- Behind and underneath appliances
- Inside cabinets and pantries
- Cracks, crevices, and wall voids
- Attics and crawl spaces
Detecting Cockroaches: Signs of an Infestation
Cockroaches reproduce quickly, which means even a small problem can escalate in no time. Early detection is key to avoiding a full-blown infestation. Here are the top signs to watch for:
Live Cockroaches
Seeing a live cockroach—especially during the day—is a clear sign of a serious infestation. They’re nocturnal and prefer to stay hidden, so daytime sightings often mean their hiding spots are overcrowded.
Droppings
Cockroach droppings vary by species but are a reliable sign they’ve taken up residence.
- German cockroach droppings resemble tiny black pepper specks or dark smears.
- American cockroach droppings look more like small, dark, oval pellets.
You’ll often find these droppings in areas where they’re most active—under appliances, around sinks, and inside cabinets.
Egg Casings (Oothecae)
Cockroaches reproduce fast. Females create egg cases, known as oothecae, that may contain up to 50 eggs depending on the species. These cases are typically hidden in protected, out-of-reach areas. If you find one, it means there are either more on the way—or already hatched.
Musty Odor
One of the more unpleasant signs is the musty, oily smell that cockroaches produce. Even a few roaches can create a noticeable odor, and a larger infestation can fill entire rooms with this distinct scent. Dead roaches can also contribute to the smell as they decompose and release oleic acid.
Professional Cockroach Control from The Pied Piper
If you notice any signs of cockroach activity—droppings, odors, egg casings, or live roaches—it’s time to call in the professionals. The earlier you act, the easier it is to eliminate the infestation completely.
At The Pied Piper, we offer proven cockroach control services to get rid of existing infestations and help prevent them from happening again. Our pest control experts know exactly where to look, how to treat the problem, and what it takes to keep your property roach-free long-term.
Why Wait? Get Expert Help Today.
Cockroaches aren’t just unsettling—they’re known to spread bacteria and allergens that can affect your health. Don’t give them the chance to take over. Contact The Pied Piper today to schedule a thorough inspection and start protecting your home or business with our expert cockroach control solutions.
