If you live in Orlando, Florida, you’re no stranger to cockroach infestations. The warm, humid climate of Central Florida creates the perfect conditions for common cockroaches to thrive.
Whether it’s German cockroaches in your kitchen or American cockroaches in your crawl spaces, these pests are more than just a nuisance—they can pose serious health risks.
Understanding the different cockroach species found in Orlando homes and knowing how to prevent a roach infestation can help you protect your home and family.
Key Takeaways
- Orlando homeowners may find German, American, smoky brown, and brown-banded cockroaches inside homes or outdoors in damp, dark spaces.
- Roaches spread bacteria, trigger asthma, contaminate food, and carry diseases like Salmonella, E. coli infections, and gastroenteritis.
- Preventing roaches can include sealing cracks, storing food properly, fixing leaks, using traps, or calling professional pest control services.
1. German Cockroaches
One of the most persistent indoor cockroach species, German roaches are a major problem in Orlando homes.
These pests are about ½ to ⅝ inches long, light brown or tan, with two dark stripes on their backs. They multiply quickly and are commonly found near stoves, dishwashers, and refrigerators.
2. American Cockroaches
Also known as palmetto bugs, American cockroaches are the largest species in Florida, growing up to 2 inches long.
They have a reddish-brown color and a yellow marking on their heads. These critters prefer damp areas like crawl spaces, basements, and drains but will move indoors when searching for food.
3. Smoky Brown Cockroaches
Similar in size to palmetto bugs, smoky brown cockroaches are completely dark brown or black and have a glossy appearance. These strong fliers are often found in attics, under mulch, and around outdoor lighting.
4. Brown-Banded Cockroaches
Unlike German roaches, which need moisture, brown-banded cockroaches prefer dry environments. These small roaches (about ½ inch long) are often found in Orlando homes, hiding behind picture frames, in furniture, and even inside electronics.
Signs of Roach Problems in Orlando Homes
Look for these signs of a cockroach infestation in your home:
- Small, dark droppings (similar to ground pepper) near baseboards, cabinets, and stoves
- Egg cases attached in crevices and hidden areas, sometimes left behind after nymphs hatch
- A strong, foul odor when numbers increase
- Frequent sightings in basements, attics, and near water pipes
- Light-brown bands across their wings and bodies
Health Risks of a Cockroach Infestation in Orlando
A cockroach infestation isn’t just gross—it’s a health hazard.
Roaches carry bacteria, contaminate food, and can trigger asthma attacks, especially in children. Their feces, shed skin, and saliva contain allergens that can worsen respiratory problems.
They are also known to spread diseases like Salmonella, E. coli infections, and gastroenteritis. If you have pet food left out overnight, they can contaminate it, putting your pets at risk too.
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches in Orlando Homes
If you spot one or two roaches, you may be able to handle the problem with DIY methods:
- Seal entry points – Use caulk to seal crevices, cracks, and gaps around doors, windows, and pipes.
- Eliminate food sources – Store food in airtight containers and clean up crumbs, spills, and pet food.
- Fix moisture issues – Repair leaks and reduce humidity in crawl spaces and basements.
- Use baits and traps – Sticky traps and gel baits can help reduce indoor cockroach numbers.
When to Call a Pest Control Company
If you’re seeing these critters regularly, you may have a roach infestation that requires professional pest control services. At Rowland Pest Management, we specialize in cockroach control for Orlando homeowners.
Our trained exterminators will:
- Conduct a thorough free inspection
- Identify the specific species in your home
- Create a customized treatment plan
- Provide follow-up services to prevent re-infestations
Call us now to schedule an appointment, and let us help you take back your home!
Frequently Asked Questions
Got more questions about cockroaches in Orlando? Here are some common concerns homeowners have that weren’t covered in the main content.
Can cockroaches in Orlando survive cold weather?
Yes, but they slow down when temperatures drop. German and American roaches hide inside homes to stay warm, especially in kitchens, basements, and wall cracks. They’re a problem all year long.
Do cockroaches bite people?
It’s rare, but they might nibble on dead skin or food crumbs on hands. The real problem is they spread bacteria, contaminate food, and trigger allergies, so infestations should be handled quickly.
What attracts cockroaches to homes?
Food, moisture, and clutter bring them inside. Leaky pipes, pet food, unsealed snacks, and messy areas make perfect hiding spots. Sealing cracks and keeping things clean can help keep them out.