What are Oriental Cockroaches?

Oriental cockroaches, sometimes called “water bugs” or “black beetles,” are large cockroach species commonly found in damp, dark, and cool areas. Adults are shiny black to dark reddish-brown and measure about 20 to 25 millimeters in length. Unlike German cockroaches, Oriental cockroaches breed more slowly but are often harder to eliminate because they live in hidden, moist areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and sewers. They are poor climbers compared to other cockroach species, which is why they are usually found at ground level.

Signs of Oriental Cockroach Infestation

• Large, dark cockroaches spotted in basements, bathrooms, or around drains
• A strong musty odor caused by secretions from the insects
• Egg cases (oothecae) that are dark brown and often deposited in sheltered areas
• Increased cockroach activity in damp spaces such as laundry rooms, crawl spaces, and kitchens
• Shed skins or dead cockroaches found near water sources

Why They are a Problem

Oriental cockroaches are known to spread harmful bacteria and pathogens. As they travel through garbage, sewage, and decaying organic matter, they contaminate food, kitchen surfaces, and storage areas. Their droppings and secretions can trigger allergic reactions and asthma in sensitive individuals. Unlike other cockroach species, Oriental cockroaches emit a particularly strong odor when infestations are large, making them unpleasant as well as dangerous to health.

Where Do They Come From?

Oriental cockroaches typically enter buildings through cracks in foundations, gaps under doors, drains, and utility lines. They are often brought in from outdoor environments where they live in leaf litter, mulch, and garbage areas. Because they thrive in cool and damp places, they are more commonly found in basements and crawl spaces than in upper floors of homes or businesses.

How to Get Rid of Oriental Cockroaches at Home

If you are searching for how to get rid of Oriental cockroaches, here are a few steps you can take:

• Keep kitchens and bathrooms dry by fixing leaks and wiping up standing water
• Store food in sealed containers and clean up crumbs and spills promptly
• Use a dehumidifier in damp areas such as basements to reduce moisture
• Vacuum regularly to remove droppings, egg cases, and insects
• Seal cracks around foundations, windows, and doors to block entry points
• Place bait stations or sticky traps near areas of activity as a temporary measure

These methods can help reduce numbers, but complete elimination of Oriental cockroaches usually requires professional treatment.

Oriental Cockroaches vs German Cockroaches

Many homeowners confuse Oriental cockroaches with German cockroaches. The main differences are:

• Oriental cockroaches are much larger and darker, while German cockroaches are smaller, light brown, and have two dark stripes on their backs.
• Oriental cockroaches prefer cool, damp environments, while German cockroaches thrive in warm kitchens and bathrooms.
• German cockroaches reproduce more quickly, but Oriental cockroaches are more resilient in outdoor and basement environments.

How We Can Help

At Go Away Pest & Wildlife Control, we provide customized treatments to eliminate Oriental cockroaches at the source. Our technicians inspect your property to locate breeding and hiding sites, apply safe and effective treatments, and recommend preventive steps to keep cockroaches from returning. We focus on long-term solutions, sealing entry points and advising on moisture control to ensure your home or business stays pest-free.