Asian Cockroach Facts & Information
Protect your home or business from Asian cockroaches by learning techniques for identification and control.
Asian Cockroach Treatment
How do I get rid of Asian cockroaches?
How to Help Prevent Asian Cockroaches
If you notice an Asian cockroach inside your home, the use of screens may be effective in preventing further infestations as well as the following preventative methods.
Reduce Outdoor Habitat
-
Remove excess leaf litter
-
Avoid over-mulching landscape beds
-
Keep compost piles maintained
-
Trim dense vegetation near structures
Limit Lighting Attraction
-
Switch to warm-colored or yellow exterior bulbs
-
Reduce unnecessary nighttime lighting
-
Use motion-activated lighting when possible
Seal Entry Points
-
Install weather stripping
-
Repair damaged screens
-
Seal cracks around doors and windows
-
Screen attic and crawl-space vents
Manage Moisture
-
Fix outdoor leaks
-
Improve drainage near foundations
-
Avoid standing water around landscaping
What Does Orkin Do To Treat Asian Cockroaches?
Cockroach populations multiply quickly and are difficult to eradicate without professional help. Contact your local pest control professional to discuss cockroach treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Behavior, Diet & Habits
Understanding Asian Cockroaches
How to Identify Asian Cockroaches
Asian cockroaches are often mistaken for German cockroaches because they share nearly identical markings and coloration.
Key Identification Features
1. Strong Flying Ability
-
Asian cockroaches readily fly when disturbed.
-
German cockroaches rarely fly.
2. Outdoor Lifestyle
-
Asian cockroaches typically live outdoors.
-
German cockroaches prefer indoor kitchens, bathrooms, and food-storage areas.
3. Light Attraction
-
Asian cockroaches actively fly toward lights at night.
-
German cockroaches generally avoid light.
4. Landscape Activity
-
Frequently found in mulch beds, compost, pine straw, leaf litter, and lawns.
What do Asian cockroaches eat?
Like other species, the Asian cockroach is omnivorous and feeds on any available food source. They have been known to carry germs and can spread diseases to humans. Asian cockroaches are prolific breeders and reach peak populations in spring and summer.
Where do Asian cockroaches live?
Unlike many pest cockroach species, Asian cockroaches are primarily outdoor insects.
Common locations include:
-
Mulch beds
-
Pine straw landscapes
-
Flower beds
-
Compost piles
-
Leaf litter
-
Dense vegetation
-
Shaded lawns
-
Shrubbery and ground cover
During warm evenings, adults may fly long distances and accidentally enter homes through open doors, windows, garages, and attic vents.
Where can Asian cockroaches be found?
As its name suggests, the Asian cockroach is most commonly found in Southeast Asia. However, the pest has spread significantly and is now known to infiltrate houses worldwide. First documented in the United States in the 1980s, they have since spread through most of the Southeastern United States.
Asian Roaches vs. German Roaches
Asian cockroaches appear identical to German cockroaches. The best way to distinguish Asian cockroaches from German cockroaches is through their behaviors.
Flying Ability
-
Asian Cockroach: Excellent flyer
-
German Cockroach: Rarely flies
Preferred Habitat
-
Asian Cockroach: Outdoors
-
German Cockroach: Indoors
Attraction to Light
-
Asian Cockroach: Strong
-
German Cockroach: Avoids light
Typical Infestation Site
-
Asian Cockroach: Landscapes and lawns
-
German Cockroach: Kitchens and bathrooms
Indoor Reproduction
-
Asian Cockroach: Uncommon
-
German Cockroach: Very common