Types of Cockroaches in Washington State
There are four common types of cockroaches that can be found in our area:
German Cockroach
The German cockroach is the most common to be found in WA and prefers to dwell in the warmer, more humid areas of a structure. They are light brown to tan in color, approximately ½ inch to 5/8 in size, and easily recognizable by the two black stripes behind their head.
American Cockroach
The largest of the house-infesting roaches, the American cockroach is reddish-brown to dark brown, approximately 1 -½ to 2-inches long, and has a tan or yellow band behind the head. They also have wings and are capable of flying.
Oriental Cockroach
Often referred to as water bugs because they prefer dark, damp, cool spaces, the oriental cockroach is approximately 1 inch in length and is dark brown with a shiny appearance. Both males and females have wings, but only females can fly.
Brownbanded Cockroach
Brownbanded cockroaches are light brown and contain two distinctive brownish bands around their wings and abdomen. The adult male measures about a half-inch long. The females are a bit shorter. Both have wings, but only males can fly.