Palmetto Bug vs. Cockroach: What's the Difference?

Palmetto bug vs. cockroach—one pest sounds tropical and mildly annoying while the other wreaks fear and terror in homeowners. But what’s the real difference between the two? Read on to find out more about how to identify these household pests.

The Difference Between a Palmetto Bug vs. Cockroach

There is no difference between palmetto bugs and cockroaches. Yes, they are the same thing. Palmetto bug is a name used to describe cockroaches in Southeastern areas of the U.S., especially Florida, and is named after a tropical palmetto plant found in that region. The American cockroach is one species referred to as a palmetto bug.

There are more than 4,500 cockroach species, and the palmetto bug is just one. A palmetto bug is justly named because it is commonly found within the fronds of palm trees and shrubs in warm, rainy areas. This type of cockroach can live inside and outside in warmer climates, but other cockroaches are found in colder climates and, thus, are usually found inside.

What Risks Do Cockroaches Pose in My Home?

Cockroaches are not only a nuisance inside your home but can carry organisms associated with at least 30 different types of diseases, according to the World Health Organization. These health risks can include campylobacteriosis, cholera, dysentery, gastroenteritis, and Giardia. Roaches transmit diseases indirectly when humans eat contaminated food or touch surfaces that cockroaches have contacted, as they carry bacteria on their bodies and feet. 

Other Types of Cockroaches

Males and female roaches are generally distinguishable by their colorings. Darker roaches are most likely female, while lighter ones are male. However, as there are so many types of cockroaches, this hard-and-fast rule doesn’t always apply. These are some of the most common types of cockroaches: 

• German cockroach: This is the most common cockroach type in the U.S., and is pale brown in color, with two dark-brown stripes behind the head. In their 12 month lifespan, German cockroaches produce more eggs than any other type of cockroach.

• American cockroach: This is the largest type of cockroach found in homes, measuring up to 53 mm in length. American cockroaches have a distinctive light yellow band around the shield behind the head and can fly short distances.

• Brown-banded cockroach: This type of cockroach jumps when disturbed. Females have reddish to dark-brown wings, while the male wings are generally darker at the base.

• Oriental cockroach: This roach type has distinctive dark, glossy bodies, are not capable of flight, and only live six months. They mainly feed on decaying organic matter.

• Death Head cockroach: This cockroach lives up to its ghoulish name with markings resembling a skull on its thorax and jet-black wings.

Signs of a Roach Infestation

Cockroaches don't like being alone, so if you see one, there are probably many more hiding out of sight. However, there is a difference between a few cockroaches and an infestation. If you suspect an infestation, as unpleasant as it might be, you’ll have to take a peek at the likely places that cockroaches gather, such as behind appliances and sinks, under floor drains, on dirty dishes and pet food and inside motors. As they can flatten their bodies, look inside wall cracks, behind baseboards, wallpaper and under floor mats. Cockroaches are mainly nocturnal, so spotting them during the day could be a warning sign of an infestation.

Other warning signs include:

• Evidence of roach eggs (small brown and oval)

• Spot roach droppings (powdery like ground coffee)

• Shedded exoskeletons

• Musty odor 

• Allergic reactions 

• Red or brown smears on sheets or inside cabinets

How to Get Rid of Roaches

If you feel confident enough to get rid of roaches on your own, there are several DIY methods to clearing a minor infestation. You might also prefer different types of natural roach repellent if you have children or pets. Store bought cockroach pesticides cost between $10 and $40.

Practical ways to eradicate cockroaches from inside your home include:

• Glue traps: These roach traps are relatively inexpensive (around $10) and you can leave them in high-traffic roach areas like kitchen cabinets and near plumbing to kill roaches.

• Boric acid: A trusted “old school” remedy for pest control is boric acid. Leave the powder or gel where cockroaches have been spotted. Once the roach steps in it, it starts decaying their bodies. However, you should not use this chemical near pets and children, as it’s dangerous if ingested.

• Bait traps: Bait traps are helpful for removing many roaches simultaneously. The poison attracts the roaches, they eat it, and bring it back to their nests, spreading it to others.

• Hire an exterminator: If you have a serious roach infestation, it’s best to call a local pest control professional to employ more intensive treatments. Professional roach treatment costs $100 to $600, depending on the severity and location of the infestation.

Tips for Preventing a Roach Infestation

After you have eliminated these pesky guests, you can take practical steps to prevent a roach infestation. These include:

• Caulk bathroom and window cracks

• Fill and patch over wall cracks

• Meticulously clean kitchen and bathrooms with quality supplies

• Seal cereal boxes and other loose food packages tightly

• Check bags, clothes, packages and furniture coming into the house for signs of roaches

• Avoid clutter inside home

• Clean up yard debris to eliminate hiding spots

Most Common Household Insects Treated by Pest Control

Cockroaches are the insect most commonly treated by pest control professionals, making up 42.4% of visits. Palmetto bugs account for a portion of the 23.5% of visits dedicated to other insects. Exterminators also commonly treat ants, bees, wasps, and hornets.