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Northwest Georgia Pest Encyclopedia American Roach

American Roach

Periplaneta americana

The American cockroach, also known as the water bug, wood roach, or water bug, is the largest house-infesting roach in the US, ranging from 1 1/4" to 2 1/8" in length. They primarily live outdoors but will venture into homes when experiencing food shortages or significant weather changes.

The preferred habitat for the American Roach is shady, humid areas such as flowerbeds, underneath mulch piles and pine straw, and gutters. Outdoors they eat decaying leaves, algae, small insects, and leaves, but when they move into a home they eat available crumbs and uncovered pet food. 

Tips to keeping your home American Roach Free!

American Roaches can enter the home by coming through drains, gaps near electrical sockets and switch plates, and through small cracks in the walls, windows, or doorways. After identifying entry points, you can seal these openings with a silicone-based caulk. Homeowners should also keep floors, counters, tables and sinks clean and free of clutter and crumbs, keep food (including pet food) in air-tight containers, and avoid letting dishes pile up.

If you would like more information on managing these pests please call Rome City Pest Contrl today at 706-676-3443.

American Roach: About
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