With each new season brings new insects. Texas weather is ideal for many new generations of bugs and cockroaches are no exception.

There are over 4000 species of roaches but only approximately 30 live among us. There are 4 common cockroaches living in Texas: American cockroach, German cockroach, Oriental cockroach and Smoky-brown cockroach and depending on the weather and type of roach, determines if they are indoor or outdoor roaches.

Cockroaches are the most common household pest that nobody wants to find.

American cockroaches are usually found outside living among your trees, logs of wood, in storm drain and sewers; but you can also find them inside when weather temperatures are too hot or too cold.

These reddish-brown roaches can reach 1.5” long and have a wingspan of 4”. American cockroaches prefer dark moist areas. That’s why you’ll find them in your bathroom or kitchen.

The Oriental cockroach is also known as the “Black Beetle”. These shiny black insects are harder to find if they make their way inside. Because they don’t climb or fly, they stay out of sight usually under large appliances. When outside you can spot them in garbage bins or even in the garden. They do have wings but they are non-functional.

The majority of all cockroaches have wings but most can’t fly. The smoky-brown cockroach, on the other hand, can fly but isn’t very good at it. It only flies when escaping danger.

Like the American cockroach, the smoky-brown cockroach can reach 1” to 1.5” in length and often is mistaken for the American cockroach but it doesn’t have the yellowish tint the American cockroach does.

The smoky-brown prefers higher humidity areas and is less likely to be found indoors.

German roaches are the hardest of the roaches to get rid of. These light brown small roaches are often found in areas of the kitchen, pantry and bathrooms. German roaches do not live outdoors but can be brought in with any type of cardboard box, paper bags and even books. They hide in small cracks and crevices leaving eggs wherever they go. They can carry diseases and make allergies act up in certain people.

Their wings help them to glide (not fly) away from danger in a hurry. They feed on any crumbs or dead insects and prefer a dark moist area like under your sink or in a water heater closet.

If you feel you have a cockroach infestation or want to take preventative measures before an infestation, call Safe Earth Pest Control today. We have a plan to fit all your needs. 214-321-2847