Most Common Types Of Cockroaches In Maine

January 19, 2022

Cockroaches In Maine

Are there cockroaches in Maine? The answer is most definitely yes. While there are more than 4,000 cockroach species worldwide, it’s estimated that only about 30 of them are considered pests and wouldn’t you know it, two of the most common ones in this group are found in Maine.  Let’s take a closer look at the types of roaches in Maine and what you should do if you find these repulsive insects in your home or business. 

American cockroaches

What American roaches look like

American roaches, also known as palmetto bugs and water bugs, are the largest house-infesting roach in the U.S., reaching lengths that exceed two-inches. American cockroaches are usually reddish-brown in color and have a yellowish figure-8 pattern on the back of their heads. As is the case with most roaches, they have six legs, are equipped with antennae. This type of roach also has wings that flying short distances possible. 

Are American cockroaches dangerous?

You’d expect a bug that hangs out in sewers and drains to be filthy and that is certainly the case with America cockroaches. When they enter a house or structure, they bring with them serious health risks including E. coli and Salmonella as well as several other types of bacteria. What’s more, they may introduce parasitic worms and several kinds of human pathogens. 

Additionally, cockroach saliva, urine and fecal matter have been linked to allergic reactions and asthma attacks. Children appear to be especially sensitive to allergies and asthma triggered by roaches. 

Where do American cockroaches hide?

Although American cockroaches primarily live outside under in flowerbeds and underneath mulch piles, they often move indoors when food shortages occur or when the weather changes dramatically (for instance, like when winter in Maine arrives). 

Inside homes and businesses, American roaches prefer areas that are dark, warm, and humid. Common hiding places for this type of roach include:

• Basements
• Boiler rooms
• Storage areas 
• Kitchens and food prep areas 
• Drains
• Bathrooms
• Laundry rooms
• Behind or under appliances 
  
  

German Cockroaches

What German cockroaches look like

While American roaches have earned the distinction as being the largest house-infesting roach, German cockroaches are the most common cockroach infesting homes and businesses in Maine. Growing up to 5/8” in length, this type of cockroach is light brown or tan in color and has two dark parallel stripes that start at the back of the head and extend down the back. Adult German cockroaches also have six legs, antennae, and they have wings. Even though they are capable of flight, they tend to crawl more than they fly. 

Are German cockroaches dangerous?

As is the case with most types of cockroaches, German roaches are a threat to health. Like their American counterparts, these cockroaches are known to cause allergic reactions and are linked to asthma attacks. 

German cockroaches are also known to spread more than 30 types of bacteria, parasitic worms, and several human pathogens. Food poisoning, diarrhea, and other gastroenteritis illness are commonly linked to German cockroaches.  

Where do German cockroaches hide?

German cockroaches will seek out areas that are warm, humid, and close to food and water sources. Residential and commercial bathrooms and kitchens are common places to find this type of roach but you may also find them in dining rooms, livings rooms, bedrooms, and other spaces where people consume food and beverages. 

How to tell if you have a cockroach problem early on

How many cockroaches does it take to change a light bulb? Who knows, they scurry off as soon as you turn on the light – ba-dum-bum-CHING. On a more serious note, cockroaches tend to avoid encounters with people for obvious reasons. At some point, if not treated, a roach infestation will become noticeable as there will be no place for these vile creatures to hide. To help you catch a cockroach problem before it gets out of hand, here are a few signs to watch for:

Live roaches (that’s a no-brainer but…)

Droppings

Depending on the species, you may droppings that resemble coffee grounds and/or pepper, or you might find cylindrical droppings with blunt ends

Eggs

Although they are quite tiny, you can see cockroach eggs that are out in the open and not hidden away in a safe space. Only a few millimeters long, they are reddish-brown in color. 

Smear marks

Cockroaches often leave dark, irregular smears on surfaces where they are most active.

How to prevent cockroach infestation

It’s quite common for cockroaches to be introduced into homes and businesses on items that are carried in. That’s why we highly recommend inspecting groceries, cardboard boxes, used furniture, secondhand clothing, pre-owned electronics, and other items that you bring in from the outside. Other ways to prevent cockroach infestations include: 

• Sealing all potential openings on the exterior of the structure
• Cleaning regularly and thoroughly
• Eliminating moisture issues
• Ridding your home or business of clutter
• Get rid of cockroaches with help from the Maine pest control pros

If you’re experiencing a cockroach problem in your home or business, contact Pine State Pest Solutions for help. Offering residential and commercial pest control services that get rid of roaches in Portland, Auburn, and in communities throughout our multi-county service area, our locally owned and operated pest control company has a solution for your cockroach infestation! 

Eliminate cockroaches & other household pests with a Home Protection plan

In addition to our cockroach control services, Pine State offers ongoing home pest control services that protect Maine families and their homes from roaches AND other common house-infesting pests including mice and ants. 

Home Protection Plan

Starting as low as $35/month*

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