Cockroaches can send shivers down the spines of the most courageous people among us. And they’re not just unsightly – cockroaches can spread a variety of bacteria, allergens, and pathogens that pose a health risk to you, your family, and your pets. Fortunately, while there are at least 19 species of cockroach in Hawaii, only four are considered pests in Oahu. In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the most common cockroach types in Oahu, including what to do if you suspect you have an infestation.

At Mid-Pacific Pest Control, we’ve been preventing, controlling and eliminating cockroach infestations for residents and businesses in Oahu for over two decades. As you can see from our stellar reviews, we’ve remained at the top of our game since our inception. If you have any questions about the most common cockroach types in Oahu, we’re only a phone call away. And if you have an infestation, you can count on us to remedy the situation in no time at all.

The Most Common Cockroach Types in Oahu

Of all the cockroach species that call Oahu home, only four usually cause problems for residents and businesses. Here are the roaches to keep an eye out for:

The American “B52” Cockroach

American cockroaches, colloquially known as the B52 due to its large size (up to three inches in length), are typically reddish-brown with a yellowish figure-eight pattern on the back of their heads. These roaches can contaminate food and surfaces as well as trigger allergic reactions. You’ll typically find them hiding out in basements, sewers, and other dark areas.

The Surinam Cockroach

Smaller than its American counterpart, the Surinam cockroach is dark brown to black with a shiny body measuring about one inch in length. Surinam Cockroaches are primarily outdoor insects and prefer warm, moist environments. In Oahu, they are commonly found in gardens, mulch, and potted plants. They can, however, invade homes, particularly during heavy rains or if their outdoor habitat is disturbed.

The German Cockroach

German cockroaches are prolific breeders, making them one of the most common and troublesome cockroach species in Oahu. They are small, about 0.5 inches in length, and light brown to tan with two dark parallel stripes on their backs. They are adept at hiding in small crevices, making them difficult to detect and control. You’ll typically find them in kitchens, food storage areas, and bathrooms.

The Brown-Banded Cockroach

Featuring distinctive brown bands across their abdomen and wings, brown-banded cockroaches measure about half an inch, have fully developed wings, and are usually light brown. They are often found in higher locations within buildings, such as ceilings, picture frames, and upper cabinets.

Find out How to Control All Cockroach Types in Oahu

Most cockroach types in Oahu can be controlled using a variety of effective methods. For example, our pest control specialists can set indoor traps and implement barrier treatments to prevent roaches from infiltrating your property’s perimeter. We can also use baiting systems, insect growth regulators, insecticides, and much more. In severe cases, we can eliminate widespread infestations using fumigation. Whatever you need, we have the skills to control your cockroach problem. So, call us today to find out how we can help you.