| Scientific name | Periplaneta americana |
|---|---|
| Group | Cockroaches |
| Size | 35–53 mm (up to about 2.1 in) |
| Colors | Red and Brown |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Basement or garage, Bathroom and Kitchen |
| Most active | Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The American cockroach is a large member of the cockroaches group. Flat, oval bodies, long antennae and a shield covering the head. Check for these three features:
- Large reddish-brown body up to two inches long
- Pale yellowish band around the shield behind the head
- Fully developed wings covering the abdomen
About this bug
The largest common house cockroach, a reddish-brown roach that lives in sewers, basements and steam tunnels. It can fly short distances in warm weather.
You'll usually find American cockroaches in basements and garages, in the bathroom and in the kitchen. They are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter.
Is it dangerous?
American cockroaches can spread bacteria to food and trigger allergies and asthma.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
When you'll see American cockroaches
American Cockroaches are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings. In winter, activity continues mainly indoors in heated spaces.
Typical places to check: basement or garage, bathroom and kitchen.
About cockroaches
The American cockroach is one of the cockroaches. Cockroaches are ancient, flat-bodied insects that hide in narrow cracks during the day and forage at night. Females produce egg cases called oothecae, each holding a dozen to about 40 eggs depending on the species. Nymphs look like small, wingless adults.
Seeing a cockroach during the day can be a sign of a large population, because crowded hiding spots push some roaches out into the open.
What to do about it
- Seal floor drains, pipe gaps and sewer entry points
- Reduce moisture in basements and crawl spaces
- Use gel bait and bait stations in hidden areas
Read the full guide: how to get rid of American cockroaches.
Bugs that look similar
Size: American Cockroaches are larger, reaching 53 mm, while smokybrown cockroaches top out around 38 mm.
Size: American Cockroaches are larger, reaching 53 mm, while Oriental cockroaches top out around 30 mm.
Size: American Cockroaches are larger, reaching 53 mm, while German cockroaches top out around 15 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does an American cockroach look like?
Large reddish-brown body up to two inches long. Adults measure 35–53 mm (up to about 2.1 in).
Does the American cockroach bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. American cockroaches can spread bacteria to food and trigger allergies and asthma.
Where do American cockroaches live?
American Cockroaches live in basements and garages, in the bathroom and in the kitchen.
When are American cockroaches most active?
Mostly in spring, summer, fall and winter.