Brown-Banded Cockroach

Actual Size: 5/16 to 5/8″

Characteristics: Brown with a distinctive band across wings.

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: Yes

Habitat: Attracted to warm areas and are often found in closets or near heat-generating appliances, such as washing machines or dishwashers.

Habits:

  • Commensal pests, meaning they do not live outdoors and rely entirely on human structures for survival.
  • A single female can produce over 600 young in her lifetime.
  • Prefers tall spaces and are often found in upper cabinets.
Category:

Description

Brown-Banded Cockroaches in Spokane, WA and Coeur d'Alene, ID

Brown-banded cockroaches get their name from the distinctive bands of color on the wings of adults. These cockroaches are found in most states, and they are commensal creatures that completely depend on human habitats for survival. Brown-banded cockroaches prefer to live in warm areas, so they often congregate in warm buildings or near heat-producing machines like washers and dryers. Though these cockroaches are frequently mistaken for the German cockroach because of their small size and similar body shape, they can be told apart by the dark stripes on their wings.

Brown-Banded Cockroach Habitat

Also known as “furniture cockroaches”, brown-banded cockroaches are obligatory domestic roaches. They do not live outdoors, so they are frequently found throughout the household – underneath furniture, behind pictures on walls, in bedrooms, and in cabinets. These cockroaches are great climbers and prefer to live in tall areas near the ceiling. Females in particular seek out warm and dark areas, which make perfect breeding spots. Once a female discovers a good breeding area, she will securely attach her yellowish-brown egg capsules in a protected space. Brown-banded cockroaches typically feed on a wide variety of substances, such as human food, starches, glue, books, and clothing.

Brown-Banded Cockroach Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Though brown-banded cockroaches are not aggressive and are not known to bite, they are still considered dangerous pests. Some of these cockroaches have been shown to carry 33 different kinds of bacteria, including E. coli and Salmonella. Brown-banded cockroaches can also trigger asthma attacks or allergic reactions in some individuals. Additionally, infestations can spread incredibly quickly – a single female can have 600 young in her lifetime, which is less than a year. If you suspect there are brown-banded cockroaches in your home or building, it is important to contact a professional cockroach exterminator for help.