This article will talk about the four most common roaches in Colorado. Due to their high adaptability to many conditions, these roaches are also among the most common roaches in the entire United States. But how do you tell these species apart, and which one is number one? Unfortunately, if you live in Colorado, you really need to know!
Roaches In Colorado: Identification
The first step to identifying the difference between each common species of roach in Colorado is knowing the basics. Some species can be mistaken for other insects, but there are common physical characteristics that always mark a cockroach. Those signs are:
Cockroaches are insects and will always have six legsRoaches are medium-sized insects with hard, glossy exoskeletons like beetlesAll species have two long antennae at the top of the head. These antennae are the same length as the body or even longer in some species.Roaches are usually varying shades of brown, tan, or amber, regardless of species-specific markings.Roaches go through three life cycles; egg, nymph, and adult. However, some species go through multiple molts in the nymph stage.Most invasive cockroach species populate very quickly, leaving obvious signs of their presence.Most invasive species prefer warm habitats with high humidity in areas without much light.
Now that you know how to tell whether it’s a roach that has entered your home, let us get into the top four most common roaches in Colorado.
German Cockroaches
The German cockroach is not only the most common in Colorado but also the most common species in the United States. While it can be found everywhere, it is more prevalent in urban areas. This species is the bane of apartment life, preferring multi-level locations or anywhere food is prepared. German roaches tend to infest moist, humid areas like under sinks and cluttered or messy storage areas. This species of roach is a half-inch long on average and is light brown overall with two darker bands behind the head. However, the most common sign of German roaches is caused by the production of a sticky, foul liquid that stains most surfaces and fabrics.
American Cockroaches
The American cockroach prefers single-level buildings and shares the German species liking for cluttered storage areas and near plumbing fixtures or food prep areas. It is no less invasive. This species is near twice the German roach’s size, up to two inches long. The American roach also has distinct body-length wings with no markings and is reddish-brown with a yellow band on the back of the head.
Brown-Banded Cockroaches
Brown-banded cockroaches may seem like an odd addition to this list since they prefer temperatures over 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this is the reason they are common roaches found in Colorado. Infestation occurs when the brown-banded species are searching for a winter home. They are most spotted under electrical appliances, behind wall hangings, under furniture, and in cluttered areas. When startled, this species is known to jump and flee rapidly. Brown-banded roaches are a half-inch long, and color, markings, and body shape differ depending on whether they are male or female. Females have wide, round deep brown bodies and amber-banded markings. Males have long, narrow, amber-colored bodies with deep brown-banded markings.
Oriental Cockroaches
Even within the most dreaded and revolting of all human pest species, the oriental cockroach stands out as unforgivably gross! Unfortunately, it is also one of the toughest. This species can live indoors and outdoors and can survive in both high and low temperatures. Plus, their preferred habitat is in or around garbage and sewage. This species really does not do itself any favors, but it will add some urgency to taking out the trash! Oriental roaches are a quarter-inch long on average and are very deep brown overall, almost black. While they may be hard to tell from other insects visually, you will not have to rely on sight alone. In addition to being commonly found near human or animal waste, oriental roaches produce a smell so foul it can overpower anything!
Roaches In Colorado: Signs Of Infestation
Since most invasive roach species tend to avoid light and noise, they can be hard to spot. However, there are some general signs and locations to look out for. These are:
Deep brown or rust-colored droppingsShed exoskeletonsEgg casings, which look like small light brown or tan seed podsSticky liquids or visible staining (German species)Unpleasant, foul, or musty odor that lingers after cleaningClusters of nymphs, which share adult markingsSigns of an infestation are most often found in warm and humid locations like attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
Remember, when in doubt, exterminate! All roach infestations should be handled as soon as possible. For more on getting rid of roaches, check out this article!
