Cockroaches are one of the most dreaded household pests — fast, filthy, and difficult to eliminate once they move in. But not all cockroaches are the same. In St. Louis, the two most common species homeowners encounter are the German cockroach and the American cockroach.
While both are unwanted guests, understanding the differences between these roaches can help you identify what you’re dealing with and take the right steps to get rid of them.
German Cockroach: Small but Tough
The German cockroach is the smaller of the two species, typically measuring about ½ inch long. They’re light brown or tan with two dark stripes running down their back.
Where They Hide
- Warm, humid areas — kitchens and bathrooms are their favorites.
- Inside appliances, under sinks, behind refrigerators, or in cabinet crevices.
- They prefer to stay close to food and water sources.
Signs You Have German Cockroaches
- Musty odor: A strong, unpleasant smell is often the first clue.
- Droppings: Small, dark pepper-like specks near appliances and baseboards.
- Egg cases (oothecae): Tan-colored capsules often found in hidden cracks or behind appliances.
- Night activity: Spotting one during the day often means there’s a large infestation.
American Cockroach: The Big, Bold Invader
The American cockroach — sometimes called a “palmetto bug” — is much larger, usually 1½ to 2 inches long. They’re reddish-brown with a yellowish figure-eight pattern on the back of their head.
Where They Hide
- Basements, crawl spaces, drains, and sewer areas.
- They prefer damp, dark environments and often enter from outdoors.
- In commercial buildings, they’re common in boiler rooms or near steam pipes.
Signs You Have American Cockroaches
- Large droppings: Often cylindrical with ridges — found near baseboards or in corners.
- Egg capsules: Dark brown, around ⅜ inch long, sometimes attached to hidden surfaces.
- Sudden appearances: They can fly or glide, especially in warm, humid conditions — giving homeowners quite a scare!
Which Is Worse?
While both can contaminate food and spread bacteria, German cockroaches reproduce faster and are typically harder to eliminate. A single female can produce hundreds of offspring in just a few months. The American cockroach is slower to multiply but often signals a larger moisture or sanitation issue.
How STL Pest Control Can Help
Whether it’s a small kitchen infestation or roaches creeping in from the sewer, STL Pest Control has been protecting St. Louis homes since 1989. Our technicians know how to identify the species, locate the source, and apply targeted treatments that eliminate the problem — fast and safely.
Don’t wait until you’re seeing them crawl across the counter. Call STL Pest Control today for a professional inspection and treatment plan.
📞 Contact STL Pest Control — Serving St. Louis homes and businesses with trusted pest control since 1989.
Quick Comparison Chart
| Feature | German Cockroach | American Cockroach |
|---|---|---|
| Size | ½ inch | 1½–2 inches |
| Color | Light brown with two stripes | Reddish-brown with yellow band |
| Common Areas | Kitchens, bathrooms, appliances | Basements, sewers, crawl spaces |
| Activity | Prefers warmth and humidity | Often found in cool, damp areas |
Learn More
Visit our website for more pest identification tips and prevention advice: stlpestcontrol.com.