Brown Banded Cockroach Control
The Brown banded cockroach gets its name from the tan bands that cross over their wings on their thoraxes. Brown banded cockroaches are believed to be native to Africa. They were introduced to Florida in the early 1900s, and now they’re common throughout the United States.
This species of cockroach usually is found indoors, especially in northern climates. It enters buildings by hiding in luggage, boxes, used appliances, and used furniture from other infested sites. Unsuspecting residents transport these hiding places indoors, inadvertently taking the brown banded cockroaches inside, too.
BEHAVIOR
Brown banded cockroaches are found throughout a wide variety of structures but show a preference for warmer (80° F) areas. They are usually found in kitchens and bathrooms, but infestations often occur anywhere you store or consume food. Brown banded cockroaches also utilize dead insects as a food source in residences and office buildings. Brown banded cockroaches hide and lay eggs in crevices and concealed aspects. You might find them in a wide variety of nooks and crannies, including:
- suspended/drop ceiling tracks
- utility penetrations
- wall molding
- wall hangings
- light switch and outlet plates
- appliance motor compartments
- electronic circuit boards
- entertainment centers
- computer equipment
- cabinets
- desks
- dressers
- nightstands
- upholstered furniture
- closets
CONTROL AND PREVENTION
The best way to avoid a Brown banded cockroach infestation is to thoroughly inspect storage boxes before bringing them into your home or workplace. Implement good sanitation and food storage practices and conduct regular preventative maintenance on possible access points.
Don’t use over-the-counter insecticides. Un-targeted “spray and pray” approaches to pest control may actually result in a larger, more scattered cockroach infestation.
APPEARANCE
Adult Brown banded cockroaches measure 1/3 to 1/2" long. They have brown bodies with markings that range from tan to darker brown or black. Adult males have slender abdomens and wings that cover the entire body while at rest. Male Brown banded cockroaches are capable of short flights when they feel motivated. Females are shorter, darker and have a broader abdomen than males. Females’ wings do not cover the abdomen and they are incapable of flight.
Brown banded cockroach egg capsules (ootheca) are slightly bowed or arched along the top. They’re light brown, measure around 1/4" long, and are less than twice as long as they are wide. The capsule also has distinctive subdivisional furrows extending across their entire width. Each egg capsule contains around 14-18 eggs.
PROFESSIONAL CONTROL
Plunkett’s Pest Control technicians utilize insecticide baits, non-repellent insecticide formulations and food-lure pest monitors (sticky traps) to destroy and capture Brown banded cockroaches. Baits are particularly effective, but correct placement is essential. Incorporating pest monitoring into the service helps with long-term control.
Call us today to discuss which of these options are best for you and your home. Our experts have everything it takes to get your roaches out and keep them out for good.
