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Cockroaches in New Jersey: Species, Dangers & Elimination

Image by Erik Karits

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​Cockroaches are resilient insects that have adapted to live alongside humans for thousands of years. Belonging to the order Blattodea, these pests are known for their ability to survive in nearly any environment. In New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, the most common cockroaches are the German cockroach, American cockroach, and Oriental cockroach.

what are cockroaches?

Image by Nikolett Emmert

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  • Cockroaches are not just a nuisance — they are a serious health threat:

  • Disease Transmission: Spread bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus by crawling across contaminated surfaces and food.

  • Allergens: Their droppings, saliva, and shed skins can trigger asthma and allergies, especially in children.

  • Food Contamination: Infestations lead to spoiled food, foul odors, and sanitation issues.

  • Rapid Reproduction: Female cockroaches produce multiple egg cases (oothecae), each containing dozens of eggs.

are cockroaches harmful?

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DIY sprays only kill visible roaches, leaving nests and eggs untouched. Professional control targets infestations at the source.

  • Inspection: Identify species and locate hiding spots.

  • Baiting Programs: Professional-grade baits eliminate colonies over time.

  • Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs): Disrupt cockroach reproduction.

  • Dusts & Residual Sprays: Penetrate cracks, crevices, and wall voids where roaches hide.

  • Sanitation & Exclusion: Reducing clutter, sealing entry points, and eliminating food/water sources are key to long-term control.

cockroach control

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  • German Cockroach: Small, light brown with two stripes; thrives in kitchens and bathrooms.

  • American Cockroach: Large, reddish-brown; often found in basements and sewers.

  • Oriental Cockroach: Dark, shiny roach that prefers damp, cool areas like crawl spaces.

  • Brown-Banded Cockroach: Small and tan, often infesting furniture and electronics.

types of cockroaches in nj

Image by Erik Karits

cockroaches appearance

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  • Size: Range from ½ inch (German) to 2 inches (American).

  • Color: Light brown, reddish-brown, or black depending on species.

  • Body: Flattened with long antennae and spiny legs.

  • Wings: Some species can glide short distances.

cockroaches habitat

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  • Indoors: Kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and wall voids.

  • Outdoors: Sewers, garbage areas, and damp leaf litter.

  • Preferences: Warm, humid, and dark spaces close to food and water.

cockroaches habitat

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  • Cockroaches are scavengers and will eat nearly anything, including:

  • Food scraps and crumbs

  • Grease and oils

  • Cardboard and paper

  • Glue and soap residues

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  • Cockroaches undergo incomplete metamorphosis:

  • Eggs: Female produces ootheca containing multiple eggs.

  • Nymphs: Hatch into smaller, wingless versions of adults.

  • Adults: Fully developed roaches capable of reproduction.

  • German cockroaches mature in as little as 6 weeks, allowing infestations to explode rapidly.

cockroaches lifecycle

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