What Types of Cockroaches Are in Baton Rouge, LA? (5+ Species Homeowners See)

LaJaunie's Pest Control By: LaJaunie's Pest Control Calendar Icon October 13, 2025
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If you live in Baton Rouge, you’ve probably seen a roach or two scurry across the floor at night. Cockroach infestations are common in Louisiana because of the high humidity and warm climate. These pests hide in attics, crawl spaces, and basements, feeding on leftover crumbs and moisture.

If you identify the cockroach species in Baton Rouge quickly, you can take action promptly. German and American cockroaches require different treatment plans, so accurate identification leads to better results.

LaJaunie’s Pest Control serves Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and nearby areas. If pests damaged your attic, we can also replace insulation in Thibodaux to restore comfort and help prevent future problems.

Key Takeaways

• Baton Rouge is home to multiple species of cockroaches, including German, American, and brown-banded cockroaches.

• Cockroaches spread bacteria, allergens, and unpleasant odors throughout homes.

• Professional pest control and attic maintenance prevent reinfestation.

• LaJaunie’s Pest Control provides same-day cockroach control with guaranteed results.

American Cockroaches (Palmetto Bugs)

American Cockroach

American cockroaches in Louisiana, often referred to as palmetto bugs, are a common sight in the state. It can grow over two inches long and has a reddish-brown body with long antennae.

These roaches thrive in humid areas, such as basements, bathrooms, and sewers. They slip in around doors, vents, and utility lines. If you see them inside, they are likely searching for food or water sources. Seal cracks and keep surfaces clean, but if you want to get rid of cockroaches in Southeast Louisiana, it’s best to call a professional for a long-term solution.

German Cockroaches

German Cockroach

The German cockroach is the most common type found in Baton Rouge homes and one of the hardest to control. High humidity, food access, and fast breeding explain why German cockroaches are hard to kill in Louisiana

They are light brown with two dark stripes and are smaller than American roaches. They breed rapidly, so a few can quickly turn into an infestation in just weeks.

They pack into tight cracks behind stoves, fridges, and cabinets. Droppings and shed skins can trigger allergies, especially in kids. Most home fixes fail. Call a licensed exterminator for fast and effective control.

Brown-Banded Cockroaches

brown-banded cockroach

The brown-banded cockroach is a small roach with two pale bands across its wings. Unlike German roaches, it prefers drier areas, such as bedrooms, offices, and living rooms.

Brown-banded cockroaches hide behind picture frames, electronics, and in upper cabinets. They can survive in low-moisture environments, so they often spread unnoticed. 

For complete removal, professional pest control in Baton Rouge, LA, is essential. There are several safe ways to get rid of brown-banded cockroaches in Louisiana when they hide in hard-to-reach areas.

Louisiana Woods and Smoky Brown Cockroaches

Smoky Brown Cockroach

Louisiana wood roaches and smoky brown roaches usually live outdoors under mulch, near gutters, and by roof vents. They are dark brown to black, can fly well, and often slip in near the roof; knowing how to get rid of smoky brown cockroaches in Louisiana helps prevent repeat invasions.

They rarely breed indoors. If you see them inside, you may have extra moisture or gaps that allow pests to enter. Seal openings and check insulation to stop re-entry. A complete inspection helps you find out where roaches are getting into your home and close those entry points before pests return. 

Oriental and Pennsylvania Wood Cockroaches

Oriental Cockroach

The Oriental cockroaches in Louisiana, often referred to as water bugs, are dark brown and approximately one inch long. They thrive in cool, damp spaces such as crawl spaces, basements, and drains. 

Knowing how to get rid of cockroaches in your sink and drains can stop these pests before they spread. These pests are slower-moving but spread strong odors and can contaminate stored food.

The Pennsylvania wood cockroach prefers outdoor habitats, such as woodpiles and mulch, but may wander indoors in search of light or shelter. Keeping wood stacks away from walls and sealing entry points helps prevent them from getting inside.

Why Baton Rouge Homes Attract Cockroaches

The warm, high humidity levels in Louisiana make Baton Rouge a haven for cockroaches. Leaky pipes, open trash bins, and crumbs on the floor serve as perfect food sources for pests. Old insulation or gaps around vents let pests reach attics and walls.

Routine pest management, paired with regular home maintenance, is the key to keeping homes pest-free. At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we offer year-round, effective cockroach control services in Baton Rouge, LA, that target these entry points and stop infestations before they grow.

Health Risks from Cockroach Infestations

Cockroaches carry harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli, that can spread across kitchen surfaces and contaminate food. Their shed skins and droppings can cause allergies or asthma flare-ups. Prolonged exposure to a cockroach infestation can also worsen indoor air quality.

By scheduling quarterly visits from a professional pest control team, Baton Rouge homeowners can minimize health risks and maintain a clean, safe home.

Safe and Professional Cockroach Control

DIY traps or boric acid may lower activity, but they rarely clear the problem. Roaches breed in hidden spots you can’t reach without pro tools. Our licensed technicians can identify the species and use safe treatments that reach walls, attics, and crawl spaces.

We offer same-day service, a satisfaction guarantee, and local technicians who are knowledgeable about Louisiana pests. Our family- and pet-friendly plans help you get a cleaner, roach-free home.

Making the Right Choice for Cockroach Control in Baton Rouge

Seeing a roach in your kitchen or bathroom can be stressful, but you can quickly address the problem. Whether it’s one or many, quick action and expert help make the most significant difference.

Our local team at LaJaunie’s Pest Control is familiar with the habits of Baton Rouge cockroaches and utilizes safe treatments that target their hiding places. You’ll get a cleaner, healthier home without the hassle of recurring infestations.

Contact us today to schedule your cockroach inspection and start living a roach-free life.

FAQs

What causes cockroach infestations in Baton Rouge homes?

Roaches come inside for food, water, and shelter. Leaks, crumbs, open trash, and unsealed containers attract them fast in Louisiana’s humid climate.

How can I prevent cockroaches from entering my home?

Seal cracks and crevices, fix leaks, and store food in sealed containers. Regular cleaning and quarterly pest management help prevent new infestations.

What is the fastest way to get rid of cockroaches?

The most reliable method is calling a professional pest control company. LaJaunie’s technicians identify species, seal entry points, and apply treatments that wholly and safely remove roaches.

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Written By: LaJaunie's Pest Control

Here at LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we always have the highest standards for service and complete customer satisfaction. In fact, we like to refer to ourselves as a customer service company that kills bugs. Simply put, if you’re not happy, neither are we! Our excellent customer service skills have earned us the Reader’s Choice Awards’ Best Pest Control Company award – three times!

LaJaunie's Pest Control is a local family-owned business

Serving Louisiana homeowners for over 15 years

Louisiana is our home, and our customers are our neighbors. We were founded in Thibodaux, Louisiana, by Jared and Skye LaJaunie in 2008. We'd love to make you a part of the LaJaunie's Pest Control family. Contact us today to get started.

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