When you see something small, dark, and with too many legs skitter across the floor in your home, you may immediately panic and think it’s a cockroach. While there are many different varieties of bugs that look like cockroaches, it’s important to understand which is which so you know what types of risks these pests present and how to eradicate them from your home. In this blog article we’ll explore some of the most common bugs that look like cockroaches and the different pest management solutions you can use to help make your property a pest-free zone.
Bugs That Look Like Cockroaches
While cockroaches may be the most dreaded home invaders, there are multiple types of bugs that look like cockroaches but aren’t. In the below section, we’ll go through some of the most common Florida bugs that look like cockroaches.
Cockroach Vs. Beetle
Did you know there are over 400,000 species of beetle? These insects are commonly mistaken for cockroaches because of their similarity in color and shape. However, there are a few key differences between the two. Beetles’ wings are hard, unlike cockroaches which have a leathery top. Cockroaches tend to have longer antennae and legs than beetles as well. Beetles will often be attracted to light where cockroaches will avoid it. Probably one of the most notable differences between beetles and cockroaches is that beetles prefer to live outside where cockroaches desperately want to move into yours.
Cockroach Vs. Termite
Termites and cockroaches look very different but are closely related. So close in fact, that researches have determined that termites are a type of cockroach! The U.S. has about forty different species of termites and they typically form colonies. Cockroaches tend to be solitary creatures that live near food and water sources in your home. Termites, on the other hand, eat cellulose (found in the wood inside your walls) where they have lots of space to build their colonies and have a ready food source.
Cockroach Vs. Palmetto Bug
What’s the difference between a palmetto bug and a cockroach, you may be wondering? Surprise – there isn’t one! A palmetto bug is just a variation of a cockroach. They may be known by this name particularly in Florida as this type of cockroach was often found hiding beneath palmetto leaves.
Pest Management Solutions
If you think you may have cockroaches, it’s best to get rid of them as soon as possible. Not only are they unsightly to have in your home, they can also pose serious health risks to anyone living in your property. Like many pests, cockroaches can carry bacteria that causes staphylococcus, streptococcus, or salmonella infections. They can even pass their own parasites on to your pets.
If you do suspect any type of creepy crawly pest in your home, it’s always advisable to bring in pest control professionals to assess the situation. At Cutters Edge, we offer Integrated Pest Management (IPM). It’s an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices. Get in touch today to discuss your needs!
