Two of the most common troublemakers in Southern Louisiana are the German cockroach and the Oriental cockroach. And believe it or not, knowing which one you’re dealing with can make a big difference in how you get rid of them.
If you’ve got roaches hanging around your kitchen, bathrooms, or crawl spaces, here’s what sets these two species of cockroaches apart—and what you can do about it.
Key Takeaways
• German cockroaches are smaller and breed faster, while Oriental cockroaches are larger and like damp hiding spots.
• Both types of roaches can spread bacteria across kitchens, bathrooms, and anywhere they crawl in search of food.
• Sticky traps, sealing cracks, and cutting off food and water can help slow down a growing infestation.
• Over-the-counter sprays often backfire, so it’s best to call a local pest pro when roaches don’t leave.
German vs. Oriental Cockroaches: Key Differences
If you’ve seen a roach scurry across the floor and want to know what kind it is, you’re not alone. German and Oriental cockroaches show up often around here, but they’ve got some key differences.
Take a look at this breakdown to help you figure out which one might be causing trouble in your home:
| Features | German Cockroach | Oriental Cockroach |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Light brown or tan with two dark stripes on the thorax | Dark brown to black |
| Size | ½ to ⅝ inch long | About 1 inch long |
| Antennae | Long, very sensitive | Long, but less sensitive |
| Egg Cases (Ootheca) | Up to 40 nymphs per case | Fewer nymphs, but still persistent |
| Life Cycle | Very fast-growing population | Slower, but still a nuisance |
| Droppings | Fine, pepper-like specks | Larger, black droppings |
What To Do If You Spot These Cockroach Species
Once a cockroach infestation takes hold, it’s not something you can ignore. Both types of roaches can carry bacteria and pathogens across food preparation areas, and they multiply fast if not dealt with quickly.
Here’s how to handle a sighting the right way:
1. Eliminate Food and Water Sources
Roaches enter homes in search of food and water. German cockroaches gravitate toward food prep zones like pantries, dishwashers, and the space behind your refrigerator.
Oriental cockroaches, on the other hand, love dark, moist places—think sewers, basements, garages, or even near leaking pipes. That’s where they get the nickname “water bugs.”
To cut off food sources, clean up crumbs, seal pantry goods in containers, and never leave food out overnight. Fix any dripping faucets or pipe leaks that create perfect water sources for these pests.
2. Focus on Hiding Spots and Entry Points
Roaches aren’t just hanging out in plain sight. They like to hide deep in crevices, under appliances, or behind wall voids. They sneak in through gaps around windows, doors, and utility lines. Check around your home’s foundation, attic vents, and even air conditioning access points.
You’ll also want to seal any voids you find and use weatherstripping to close up any drafty gaps. This is one of the most important steps in any long-term cockroach control strategy.
3. Use Sticky Traps to Track Activity
Sticky cockroach traps can help you figure out which types of roaches you’re dealing with and how bad the infestation is. Place traps near hiding places like under sinks, near garbage cans, and along walls where they travel.
If you’re catching reddish-brown bugs with wings, you might also be dealing with an American cockroach, another common pest in our region.
Don’t confuse these larger fliers with the smaller brown-banded cockroach. They’re another light brown species often mistaken for the Germans, especially during the nymph stage.
4. Avoid DIY Mistakes
Plenty of homeowners try the DIY route, but many over-the-counter products either don’t work or make the problem worse. Residual sprays can repel roaches instead of killing them, and in some cases, they can contaminate food areas.
Even worse, improper use can ruin professional bait placements, especially when dealing with German roaches, which need a very targeted approach.
Roaches are smart.
They adapt.
And if you’re using the wrong product or overapplying it, you could just be pushing them deeper into your walls or crawl spaces.
5. Call a Licensed Exterminator
When it comes to a full-blown cockroach infestation, pest control services from a local expert like LaJaunie’s Pest Control are your best bet.
Our team knows how to tackle all types of cockroaches—from German to Oriental to Asian roaches. And yes, even the occasional wood cockroach that wanders in from your yard.
No matter which types of roaches you’re up against, don’t wait. The longer they’re in your home, the harder they are to get rid of.
Call us today for same-day service and a pest control plan tailored to your home. We’ll help you shut down the infestation—fast.
