Brownbanded Cockroaches

What are brownbanded cockroaches?

Brownbanded cockroaches are a hearty species of roach that can survive both cold and hot temperatures making them a formidable pest.

Ranging in color from yellowish-brown to dark brown, brownbanded cockroaches have two dark bands that go across their backs. Brownbanded cockroaches have wings, and while males are capable of flying they usually only do so when disturbed. Females and males use their legs as their main mode of transportation. They are a small species of roach with adults only growing to about 1/2 an inch in length.

Why do I have a problem with brownbanded cockroaches?

Unlike most of the cockroaches found in our area, brownbanded cockroaches are one of the few roach species that do not have high moisture needs. They can invade and survive quite well inside dry homes or new homes without underlying moisture problems.

Another reason why these pests are so problematic is that their tiny size allows them to move through the smallest of cracks and crevices and inside homes or businesses.

In addition to being able to enter inside on their own, they are also able to move inside when carried indoors in our belongings. Brownbanded cockroaches often move inside in cardboard boxes, females like to lay their eggs in the creases corrugated cardboard provides them.

Where do brownbanded cockroaches hide?

Since these cockroaches don’t need a lot of moisture, they are often found gathering together in warm, dry areas of a Washington home and typically avoid areas where there are pipes and faucets. The upper parts of cabinets, closets in the upper levels of a home, spaces behind door frames, and attics are common hideouts for brownbanded cockroaches.

Are brownbanded cockroaches dangerous?

Their ability to contaminate food, spread disease, and trigger allergies and asthma, makes brownbanded cockroaches a dangerous pest.

The biggest concern with brownbanded cockroaches and other species of roaches is the fact that cockroaches spread bacteria, human pathogens, and parasites that can make us ill—usually with things that create gastrointestinal issues.

Brownbanded cockroaches don’t just feed on food items, they will also chew on and damage non-food items like wallpaper, envelopes, books, clothing, and other items.

How do I get rid of brownbanded cockroaches?

Brownbanded cockroaches or any species of cockroach should never be allowed to live in a structure for any period of time. These roaches are difficult to keep out and an infestation can occur at any time. The best way to eliminate these pests from your home or business is to partner with a professional.

If you’ve found brownbanded cockroaches crawling around in your home or business, contact Prosite right away. Our team will conduct an onsite inspection to accurately identify the species you're dealing with and develop a treatment plan to get rid of cockroaches. Reach out today to learn more!

How do I prevent problems with brownbanded cockroaches?

At Prosite, in addition to our professional pest control services, we recommend implementing the following brownbanded cockroach prevention tips:

• Keep brownbanded cockroaches from entering your home by giving the exterior a thorough inspection and sealing any openings discovered, remembering to repair even the tiniest or most insignificant looking entry points.
• Be careful when bringing items stored in cardboard boxes into your home. Inspect the boxes for cockroaches or their eggs.
• Inspect used appliances and furniture for roaches before bringing them into your home.
• Keep cabinets and pantries free of food debris that these roaches could use as a food source.
• Vacuum often, not forgetting the spaces under furniture.
• Keep attic and other storage areas free of clutter.
• Store items in your home in plastic containers with lids, not cardboard boxes.