Smoky Brown Cockroaches in Ocklawaha, FL; Identification, Diet, Life Cycle & More

Cockroaches are well known all over the world. Where the different species have so many similarities, they also have distinctive and subtle characteristics that differ. In general, cockroaches are a pest no one wants to deal with. With their vague indifference to where they live and what they eat, they are highly likely to carry germs, bacteria, diseases, and viruses that they can easily spread. They are known to trigger allergy symptoms and asthma attacks and can cause their fair share of destruction as they destroy various materials looking for food. Florida is no stranger to the assortment of roaches roaming around and today, we at Pest 911 would like to discuss the fundamentals of smoky brown cockroaches.

Smoky Brown Cockroach Identification

Smoky brown cockroaches, formally known as Periplaneta fuliginous, average about 1 ½ inches in length and have a uniformly black-mahogany color. By the time they are adults, their wings are nicely developed that stretch to the tip of the abdomen. As nymphs, their long antennae have white tips.

Where Are Smoky Brown Cockroaches Found?

These roaches are frequently discovered on ground floors, on top of leaky roofs and around standing water. They can also be found under stacks of wood, in exposed garbage, and in sewer openings. Since they have wings, they can easily make their way inside flying in through open windows and doors or crawl through small holes in siding or home foundations. They are nocturnal but are attracted to interior lights, making them more enticed to come indoors.

What Do Smoky Brown Cockroaches Eat?

Smoky brown cockroaches are most actively feeding during late dusk or early dawn hours as well as to search for water. They prefer small holes in siding or home foundations but like most roaches, they are opportunistic feeders and will include dead insects, fecal matter, starches, meats, and sweets in their diets.

Smoky Brown Cockroach Life Cycle

Females lay egg capsule, each will lay about 17 and in each capsule, there are approximately 24 eggs in each. From the time they hatch to adulthood, it takes between 10-12 months, depending on the environment. As a tropical cockroach they are prone to moisture and without a constant source of water, they will dry up quickly. As a result, they avoid places like vents and any place with a sizable current of air to avoid getting dried out. More often than not, when they are found dead indoors, it is due to dehydration. Outside they stay moist by staying in mulch, woodpiles, leaf litter, and tree bark. Greenhouses are a special paradise for the smoky brown cockroach, and they frequent tree holes and canopies of palm trees. Additionally, they protect themselves flower beds, block walls and gardens.

How to Prevent Smoky Brown Cockroaches

Reducing the moisture content in and around your home helps reduce the risk of these critters from getting inside. Ensure your home is well sealed, trash is secure, screens are in place, and the yard is well maintained with no clutter inside our outside.

Cockroach Control

If you have an issue with smoky brown cockroaches, or other cockroaches or pests, call Pest 911 and let our experts take care of the infestation with proven methods and effective products.