Asian Cockroach Facts & Information
Protect your home or business from Asian cockroaches by learning techniques for identification and control.
Treatment
How do I get rid of Asian cockroaches?
What You Can Do
If you notice an Asian cockroach inside your home, the use of screens may be effective in preventing further infestation.
What Orkin Does
Cockroach populations multiply quickly and are difficult to eradicate without professional help. Contact your local pest control professional to discuss cockroach treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Behavior, Diet & Habits
Understanding Asian Cockroaches
Appearance
Asian cockroaches appear identical to German cockroaches.
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Length: Asian cockroach adults are about 13 to 16 mm long.
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Color: They are light brown and have two parallel lines behind their head on the pronotum.
Diet
Like other species, the Asian cockroach is omnivorous and feeds on any available food source. They have been known to carry germs and can spread diseases to humans. Asian cockroaches are prolific breeders and reach peak populations in spring and summer.
Geographic Range
As its name suggests, the Asian cockroach is most commonly found in Southeast Asia. However, the pest has spread significantly and is now known to infiltrate houses worldwide. First documented in the United States in the 1980s, they have since spread through most of the Southeastern United States.
Habitat
Asian cockroaches are typically located in shaded, moist areas. While they are more likely to infest outdoor areas, they do sometimes enter homes. The pests are most active at dusk and fly long distances toward sources of light. You may see these insects attracted to your television screen or perched near lamps and other sources of illumination.
Asian Roaches vs. German Roaches
Asian cockroaches appear identical to German cockroaches. The best way to distinguish Asian cockroaches from German cockroaches is through their behaviors. Use these three behaviors to tell them apart:
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Do they fly? - Asian cockroaches are capable flyers, while German cockroaches are not.
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Are they attracted to light? - The most significant attractant is light. Therefore, If you see a cockroach that looks like the more familiar German cockroach, but doesn’t seem to be alarmed and scurry away when the lights are turned on, that cockroach is very likely an Asian cockroach.
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Where did you find them? - Asian cockroaches live primarily outdoors, while German cockroaches tend to infest human dwellings.