What Is the Brown-banded Cockroach?
The brown-banded cockroach (Supella longipalpa) is one of the smaller cockroach species found in North Carolina homes, measuring about 10–14 mm long. They are light brown with two distinctive lighter bands running across their wings and abdomen, giving them their name.
Habitat & Behavior
Unlike other cockroach species that prefer damp environments, brown-banded cockroaches favor warm, dry locations. They are often found in upper cabinets, behind picture frames, inside electronics, near ceiling light fixtures, and within furniture. This preference for elevated, warm locations sets them apart from other roaches.
Brown-banded cockroaches are active primarily at night and can fly when disturbed, particularly the males. They feed on a wide range of materials including food scraps, book bindings, wallpaper paste, and even nylon stockings.
Prevention & Control
These roaches carry and spread bacteria that can cause gastroenteritis and diarrhea. Their cast skins and droppings are allergens that can trigger asthma attacks. Because they scatter throughout a home rather than congregating in kitchens and bathrooms, they can be more difficult to eliminate than other cockroach species.