How to Tell Cockroaches and Palmetto Bugs Apart

Differences Between Roaches vs. Palmetto Bugs

What Is a Palmetto Bug?

The term "palmetto bug" is a general name commonly used to refer to several species of cockroaches in the southern U.S. and even some beetles. Other cockroach names are "waterbug" or "Croton bug." Unfortunately, these names can lead to confusion and misidentification, since any moderate- to large-sized cockroaches and even beetles are often called these by the public. Since habits and control measures often are species-specific, it is best to consult a pest control professional who can properly identify the species and then select control measures.

American Cockroach Illustration

American Cockroach Illustration

Palmetto Bug vs. Cockroach

A cockroach species commonly called a "palmetto bug" is the American cockroach (Periplanetaamericana). Adult American cockroaches are large and winged. Their coloration is dark brown with a cream-colored prothorax that has dark markings that resemble sunglasses. American cockroaches prefer damp conditions and often are found in sewers, woodpiles and mulch. They will fly to lights. This particular behavior is disconcerting for homeowners who encounter a large roach that flies near their face when entering doors with lights nearby in the evening.

Smokybrown Cockroach

Another large species that may be called a "palmetto bug" is the smokybrown cockroach. The adults are a dark mahogany color and winged as well. They lack the sunglasses markings on the prothorax and are slightly smaller.

What Does a Cockroach Look Like?

Difference Between a Waterbug and a Cockroach

Resources

Protect Your Home from Cockroaches

Signs of a Cockroach Infestation | What Attracts Roaches

How do I get roaches out of my car?

Cockroaches Exterminator - How To Identify & Get Rid Of Cockroaches

Cockroach illustration

Cockroach Species, Genus & Taxonomy

Do Cockroach Bombs Work? | Cockroach Fogger Facts

What are Cockroaches' Natural Predators?

How to Distinguish Cockroaches vs. Other Pests

Boric Acid for Killing Cockroaches: Does It Work?

What Types of Cockroaches Fly? | Get Rid of Flying Roaches

Do American Cockroaches Fly? | Roaches with Wings

Get a quote today

Eliminate pests and prevent future problems.

We are here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

877-819-5061

THE BEST IN PESTS.™

SERVICES

Pest ControlTermite ControlPrevent and Protect

PEST LIBRARY

Browse All Pests

CUSTOMER CARE

My AccountPay BillFind My BranchContact UsProduct Labels

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

© 2024 Orkin LLC

Terms of UsePrivacyAccessibility StatementCareers

Your Branch  

Call Now