In this area of Pennsylvania, the most common roaches seen are the german cockroach, the oriental cockroach, the brown-banded cockroach and the American cockroach. In Philadelphia the german and oriental cockroaches are by far the most common.

German cockroaches can be found all over the world. They are the most common cockroach in the United States. Each German cockroach can live for about 100-200 days. They are commonly found in kitchens or food areas, in cabinets and around sink pipes and appliances such as the microwave, refrigerator, and oven. They are attracted to the heat that these appliances put off and the condensation or water droplets from the sink pipes.

Oriental Cockroaches are the ones commonly known as waterbugs because they are often found near water rich resources like puddles, water pipes, drains, sewers, under porches and in damp rooms like a basement. They are large and very dark compared to other cockroaches. They usually travel through sewer pipes and drains so placing a screen cover over a drainage pipe can work as a physical barrier preventing them from crawling out of the pipe. They prefer darker, wetter places and cooler temperatures than other cockroaches. Waterbugs are usually not found high on a wall, counter or in a cabinet.

The American cockroach is the largest cockroach found in houses. Females can hatch up to 150 offspring per year. Cockroaches don’t get their wings until the become adults. American cockroaches are nocturnal. They rest by day and forage for food at night.

Brown-banded cockroaches get their name from the two light bands they have across their dark brownish bodies. The male’s wings are larger than the female’s wings. Brown-banded cockroaches often hide their eggs in or under furniture. They usually live 5-6 ½ months.