Brown-Banded Cockroaches in Virginia
The brown-banded cockroach is named for the prominent color bands across the wings of adults and the bodies of nymphs. It is found throughout most of North America, thriving in buildings with warm environments. While it shares a similar small size and shape with the German cockroach, it can be identified by its lack of two dark stripes. Often called the “furniture cockroach,” brown-banded cockroaches can be found in various parts of the home, including bedrooms, under furniture, and behind wall decorations.
Brown-Banded Cockroach Habitat
Brown-banded cockroaches thrive in warm environments and are often found elevated in areas like closets or heat-producing appliances. They are excellent climbers and can be active both day and night. Females prefer dark, warm places to attach their yellowish-brown egg cases, often choosing walls, ceilings, or furniture. These cockroaches feed on a wide range of materials, including food, starches, dyes, glue, books, and even clothing.
Brown-Banded Cockroach Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Brown-banded cockroaches are not aggressive and do not bite, but they reproduce rapidly, with a single female capable of producing up to 600 offspring in her lifetime. These roaches are known to spread over 33 types of bacteria, posing a health risk to homeowners. As they forage, they can spread germs in their environment, potentially causing asthma attacks in individuals sensitive to allergens. Common bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella are often carried by brown-banded cockroaches, leading to gastroenteritis and diarrhea.
If you believe your home is infested with brown-banded cockroaches, get in touch with a pest control expert for help.
