How To Identify A Cockroach
Cockroaches, also referred to simply as roaches, are members of the Dictyopteran order of insects, and there are over 4,500 known species found worldwide. However, out of that staggering amount, only about thirty of them live around or near humans. Cockroaches are medium-sized insects with six legs and two body-length antennae. Their bodies resemble that of a beetle, with a glossy exoskeleton, and they are deep brown, reddish-brown, or amber-colored. Individual markings and characteristics are determined by species.
The Five Most Common Roaches Found In Wisconsin
There are five species of cockroach that are common in the state of Wisconsin. However, cockroaches are one of the most resilient and invasive types of insects in the world. When people joke that the roaches are the only species that could survive nuclear winter, they are not far off the mark! Due to their high adaptability to even the harshest conditions and to consume almost anything, new species can always appear in your area. In this section, we will go into how each of the top five species can be identified and the locations they are likely to be found.
Wood Cockroach
The wood cockroach, also called the Pennsylvania wood cockroach, is the only species that is native to Wisconsin, and it is rarely found indoors. This species is one inch in length on average and prefers to live in or near rotting vegetation, firewood, or under the bark of trees. Males are light brown, whereas females are a darker brown overall. While both males and females have wings that span their entire body length, only male wood roaches can fly. Like many species, the wood roach is nocturnal and retreats when in the light.
German Cockroach
The German cockroach is the most common species found in urban areas. This species prefers locations such as multi-level housing structures, food preparation areas, storage areas, and near plumbing fixtures. German roaches are a half-inch in length, and they are light brown with two darker brown bands near their head. The species also secrete a foul-smelling liquid that tends to leave noticeable staining.
American Cockroach
The American cockroach is one of the most common roach species found throughout North America. This species is up to two inches long, with body-length wings and a reddish-brown body marked with a yellow band just behind the head. American roaches prefer environments such as single-floor locations where food preparation areas are located. The American cockroach may live up to three years as an adult.
Oriental Cockroach
The oriental cockroach can adapt and survive in cold temperatures, as well as in indoor and outdoor locations. This species is a quarter-inch long and is very deep brown overall, often appearing black. Oriental roaches are considered by many to be the dirtiest type of roach. This is both due to their preferred environment near garbage or sewage areas and the extremely foul odor they produce. These roaches may live up to three years in the nymph stage of their life cycle, but they only live around 6 months as adults.
Brown-Banded Cockroach
The brown-banded cockroach is a bit less common in Wisconsin than the four species above but is still prevalent. This is due to its preference for warmer temperatures over 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This species is around a half-inch long, and males have long narrow bodies that are amber-colored with darker brown banding. Females have rounded bodies, and the coloration is reversed; deep brown overall with amber banding. Brown-banded cockroaches prefer locations under electrical appliances, under wall hangings or furniture, or in cluttered areas. This species is also known to jump suddenly when startled.
