Brown-Banded Cockroaches in Kailua Kona
Named for the prominent bands of color on the wings of adults and bodies of nymphs, the “brown-banded” cockroach is found across North America, typically thriving in buildings with consistently high temperatures. While they share similarities in size and body shape with the German cockroach, the brown-banded cockroach can be identified by its lack of two dark stripes.
The brown-banded cockroach is an obligate domestic roach, exclusively relying on food and shelter within our homes and buildings for survival, and does not reside outdoors. Often called the “furniture cockroach,” the brown-banded cockroach can be found evenly distributed throughout infested households, occupying non-food areas like bedrooms, beneath furniture, and behind items mounted on the wall.
Brown-Banded Cockroach Habitat
Brown-banded cockroaches thrive in warm environments and prefer to live in elevated spaces such as closets or near heat-generating appliances. They are known for their excellent climbing abilities and remain active during the day and night. When it is time to lay eggs, females will seek out warm, dark areas such as walls, ceilings, tables, bedding, or furniture to lay their yellowish-brown egg capsules. Their diet consists of various materials, including human food, starches, dyes, glue, books, stamps, and clothing.
Brown-Banded Cockroach Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
While brown-banded cockroaches are non-aggressive and do not bite, they still pose a significant threat to humans. They are known to spread over 33 different bacteria, contaminating food and surfaces around their habitat and triggering asthma attacks in those who are sensitive. Brown-banded cockroaches are known carriers of E. coli and Salmonella, leading to conditions like gastroenteritis and diarrhea. Another concern is their rapid reproduction. A single female has the potential to produce up to 600 offspring in her lifetime.
If you suspect a brown-banded cockroach infestation, contact a professional cockroach exterminator for help.
