Spotting a roach in your home is enough to make anyone uncomfortable—especially here in South Louisiana, where infestations are common due to the warm, humid climate. But not all roaches are the same.
Two common species of cockroaches we often see in homes are the American cockroach, also known as a palmetto bug, and the Oriental cockroach, often called a water bug.
Here’s what you should know about these two types of cockroaches and how to keep them out of your home.
Key Takeaways
• American and Oriental cockroaches are common pests in Louisiana homes with different looks, habits, and hiding places.
• Signs of cockroach infestations include musty smells, droppings, egg cases, and sightings during the daytime hours.
• Cockroaches spread germs, cause breathing problems, and multiply quickly which makes infestations worse over a short time.
• Store sprays often fail to solve infestations so professional pest control is the best way to protect your home.
Oriental vs. American Cockroaches: Key Differences
While both are a common pest, they behave differently, prefer different environments, and need different pest control strategies. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you know what you’re up against.
| Features | Oriental Cockroach | American Cockroach |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Shiny dark brown to black | Reddish-brown with yellowish mark on the thorax |
| Wings | Often wingless (especially females) | Strong fliers, especially adult males |
| Common Hiding Spots | Basements, crawl spaces, sewers | Pantries, near stoves, and in dark places |
| Preferred Climate | Cool, moist places | Warm, damp areas |
| Outdoors Location | Leaf litter, woodpiles | Near food sources, trash, or pipes |
| Movement | Slow mover | Fast, quick to escape when spotted |
Signs of Cockroach Infestations
If you think you have a pest problem, here are some of the most common signs of a cockroach infestation:
- Musty odor: Oriental cockroaches give off a strong, foul smell.
- Droppings: Small, dark specks that look like pepper found near food sources, stoves, and crevices.
- Egg cases: These are dark, capsule-shaped cases left in dark places like behind appliances or under sinks.
- Sightings during the day: Roaches are nocturnal, so seeing them in the daytime often means the infestation is growing.
Why These Roaches Are a Real Problem
Both Oriental roaches and American roaches are more than just gross. They can be dangerous to your health and your home.
Let’s break down exactly why these types of roaches are bad news.
They Spread Germs and Pathogens
Roaches crawl through organic matter, sewers, and trash before heading into your home. Along the way, they pick up bacteria and other pathogens.
Once inside, they walk across your food preparation areas in search of food, leaving behind droppings and germs. This can lead to stomach bugs, food poisoning, and more.
Even if you don’t see them during the day, they may be active at night, especially in dark places or hidden crevices.
Their Shedded Parts Trigger Breathing Issues
As these common cockroaches grow, they shed skins and leave behind egg cases, also called ootheca. These break down into tiny particles that can float in the air.
Breathing in this dust can trigger asthma or allergies—especially in homes with a large cockroach infestation. These particles often collect behind appliances, in crawl spaces, and in other out-of-sight areas.
They Reproduce Fast
Both species of cockroaches lay egg cases that hatch into nymphs (baby roaches). These nymphs grow quickly, especially in moist places like under sinks or near water sources.
Just a few roaches can turn into a big problem fast. Seeing even one could mean dozens more are hiding.
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches for Good
Many homeowners try sprays or traps from the store, but these don’t always work—especially for large infestations. Using the wrong products or too much spray can even make the problem worse. It can mess with professional baits and fail to reach the small crevices where roaches hide.
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we identify the types of roaches in your home and use treatments that actually work. Our services focus on removing the problem, blocking entry points, and keeping roaches from coming back.
We offer same-day service, a satisfaction guarantee, and expert pest management to protect your home.
Contact us now for expert cockroach control in South Louisiana—and let’s stop them in their tracks.
