| Scientific name | Supella longipalpa |
|---|---|
| Group | Cockroaches |
| Size | 10–14 mm (up to about 0.55 in) |
| Colors | Brown and Tan |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Bedroom or bed and Kitchen |
| Most active | Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The brown-banded cockroach is a small member of the cockroaches group. Flat, oval bodies, long antennae and a shield covering the head. Check for these three features:
- Two pale yellow bands across the wings and abdomen
- Small, light-brown body
- Found in upper cabinets, ceilings and electronics, not just kitchens
About this bug
A small cockroach with two light bands across its back that prefers warm, dry spots high in rooms. It hides behind picture frames, in electronics and inside furniture.
You'll usually find brown-banded cockroaches in bedrooms and beds and in the kitchen. They are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter.
Is it dangerous?
They carry bacteria and allergens like other cockroaches but are not known to bite.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
When you'll see brown-banded cockroaches
Brown-Banded 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: bedroom or bed and kitchen.
About cockroaches
The brown-banded 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
- Place bait throughout the home, including high shelves and furniture
- Inspect used furniture and electronics before bringing them inside
- Vacuum egg cases found under furniture and shelves
Read the full guide: how to get rid of brown-banded cockroaches.
Bugs that look similar
Where found: look for brown-banded cockroaches in bedrooms and beds and in the kitchen; German cockroaches turn up in the kitchen and in the bathroom.
Frequently asked questions
What does a brown-banded cockroach look like?
Two pale yellow bands across the wings and abdomen. Adults measure 10–14 mm (up to about 0.55 in).
Does the brown-banded cockroach bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. They carry bacteria and allergens like other cockroaches but are not known to bite.
Where do brown-banded cockroaches live?
Brown-Banded Cockroaches live in bedrooms and beds and in the kitchen.
When are brown-banded cockroaches most active?
Mostly in spring, summer, fall and winter.