Home » Cockroaches » Brown-Banded Cockroach

What Is Brown-Banded Cockroach?

Brown-banded cockroaches are classified as invasive due to their dark brown bodies marked by two light brown bands extending across their wings. Notably, both adult and juvenile cockroaches exhibit these distinct bands.

Brown-banded cockroaches seek refuge inside homes and are often discovered in kitchen cabinets, bathrooms, and behind picture frames. The typical lifespan of this species is approximately 206 days. Although naturally nocturnal, these insects may also be active during the day.

Brown-banded cockroaches are characterised by dark brown bodies marked with two light brown bands. Females typically exhibit a darker hue than males. Most adult, brown-banded cockroaches measure around 1.3cm in length. Males possess wings extending beyond the pointed tip of their abdomen, while females have underdeveloped wings restricting them from flying. These oval-shaped insects feature six legs and a pair of antennae.

The life cycle of brown-banded cockroaches consists of three growth stages that commence with an egg’s hatching. A female brown-banded cockroach can lay up to 18 eggs in an egg capsule called an ootheca. After carrying the ootheca on her back for approximately 24 to 36 hours, she attaches it to concealed areas on furniture, shelves, or ceilings.

The life cycle of these insects is heavily influenced by temperature. Depending on the temperature, the maturation period of a brown-banded cockroach nymph or baby can range from 80 to 124 days. Following this stage, a cockroach can survive for an additional 60 days.

The brown-banded cockroach exhibits a remarkable ability to adapt to diverse environments. These insects thrive in warm and humid conditions, frequently residing beneath or inside furniture, electronics, and appliances.

The area beneath benchtops is a frequent breeding ground for these insects, providing a ready food source, darkness, and warmth for survival. Additionally, these tiny creatures can inhabit crevices and gaps in various appliances and furniture, such as coffee makers, toasters, dishwashers, tables, and chairs – the range of potential habitats is extensive.

Maintaining a neat and organised household and cleaning appliances thoroughly before use is the best way to prevent infestations.

Dangers to Humans

Brown-banded cockroaches can cause damage to your food, invade your closets, and take over your cabinets. They pose a threat to your furniture and clothing, as they tend to consume paper and fabric. Moreover, these pests can transmit foodborne illnesses and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Their excrement and shed skin can also trigger allergic reactions.

Signs of an Infestation

Detecting a brown-banded cockroach infestation can be tricky, but their droppings are a crucial indicator of their presence. Look for black specks or smears in areas where the roaches are frequent.

Yellow egg cases in your home’s concealed areas are another sign of brown-banded cockroach infestations. Spotting the roaches themselves is also a common indicator. If you come across one brown-banded cockroach, there likely are more on your property.

We Are the Pest Control Experts You Can Trust

Tom’s Pest Control Canberra offers professional, reliable, and cost-effective services for residential and commercial property owners. Our team of experts specialises in dealing with brown-banded cockroach infestations, and we are just a call away if you suspect an infestation on your property.

Upon contacting us, our team will thoroughly inspect your property and provide practical solutions to eliminate these bothersome pests from your surroundings. We will also advise you on preventing future infestations and keeping your property cockroach-free.

Whether you have a small or large property, our extermination process is meticulous, leaving no corner untouched to eradicate these pests. So contact us today, and let us help you reclaim your property from brown-banded cockroaches.

Contact Us

Contact us to discuss your cockroach control needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Brown Banded Cockroaches Fly?

Although both male and female brown-banded cockroaches possess wings, only males have wings long enough to enable them to fly. The male’s wingspan extends beyond the tip of its abdomen, allowing it to fly quickly.

The shedding of the skin by the nymphs of brown-banded cockroaches can cause discomfort in people sensitive to allergens. This discarded skin can lead to symptoms such as itchy eyes and sneezing. Additionally, the droppings of these pests may also trigger allergic reactions in some people.

Brown-banded cockroaches thrive in warm temperatures and seek out cozy shelters, often entering properties through infested furniture, food, groceries, and electronics. As a result, they are commonly found in living areas with access to food and plenty of hiding places.