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Asian cockroach on the tip of a flower petal - Keep pests away from your home with City Termite & Pest Control in Malvern, AR

Asian Cockroach

Actual Size: 16 mm

Characteristics: Brown with two darker parallel bands running lengthwise.

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: Yes, and they are capable of flying.

Habitat: Prefer outdoor areas in mulch, compost, leaf litter, and lawns.

Habits:

  • Looks similar to German cockroaches, but prefers to live outdoors.
  • Most commonly live in shaded areas, mulch, grass, and compost piles.
  • May invade homes and buildings, but indoor infestations are rare occurrences.


Asian Cockroaches in Central Arkansas

In 1986, the Asian cockroach was identified as a newly introduced species to the United States when a professional pest control operator collected these insects in Florida. They were originally referred to as German cockroaches but were eventually identified as Asian cockroaches. Although the two have many similar characteristics, Asian cockroaches are stronger fliers and can sustain flight upwards of 120 feet. Further, the Asian cockroach has pest periods of early spring and summer when the adult population peaks.

Asian Cockroach Habitat

Unlike German cockroaches, which prefer to live indoors and are a major household pest, Asian cockroaches prefer to live outside in lawns, leaf litter, compost piles, and mulched beds. At first glance, many people think that Asian cockroaches are flying moths or German cockroaches. One way to identify them is their increase in activity around sundown and their attraction to lights. They will often fly into structures with light indoors, such as windows and lighted doorways. Indoor infestations are rare with the Asian cockroach but still alarming for many homeowners.

Asian Cockroach Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

German cockroaches and Asian cockroaches also have different behaviors from one another. The Asian cockroach is known for its skilled ability to fly, its preference for living outdoors in shady areas, grass, mulch, and compost piles, and its rare invasion of homes. This species will become active in the evening and the adults are attracted to light. Should they enter homes, they will rest on a lighted surface, such as TV screens, lampshades, or walls. When lights are turned off, the cockroaches will follow to the next lighted room, making residents believe that these roaches are attacking them.

If you are dealing with an Asian cockroach problem, contact your local roach exterminators for help.