December 2, 2023
Edited by
Kurt Freudensberger
Copy Reviewed by
Michelle Sanchez
Scientifically reviewed by
Home / Blog / The Difference Between Palmetto Bugs and Cockroaches
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Scientifically reviewed by Daniel Baldwin, BCE, CCFS, CP-FS
-Published on January 3, 2025
-Updated on January 10, 2025
Taking action when you first spot cockroaches can simplify dealing with infestations. Unfortunately, there is a lot of confusion about the different species of cockroaches, so it can be difficult to know when you should call in the pros. This post will explain the difference between palmetto bugs, cockroaches, and waterbugs, and how to get rid of them from your home.ย
This may be surprising, but there is no difference between a palmetto bug and a cockroach. The palmetto bug is another name for the American cockroach, one of the main species of cockroaches that are common in the U.S.ย
Palmetto bugs are a type of cockroach commonly found in the southeastern United States, especially in states like Florida and South Carolina. The term palmetto bug is often used interchangeably with the American cockroach due to their prevalence in areas where palmetto trees grow. These insects are known for their large size and reddish-brown color. They thrive in warm, humid environments and are attracted to moist areas, which is why they are frequently found in homes.
Yes, palmetto bugs can fly. They have well-developed wings that allow them to glide or fly short distances. The flying palmetto bug typically takes to the air when disturbed or in search of food and water, making them more active during the warmer months.
Palmetto bugs prefer damp, warm environments and can be found both indoors and outdoors. Inside homes, they are commonly discovered in basements, crawl spaces, kitchens, and bathrooms where moisture and food sources are abundant.ย
Outdoors, palmetto bugs inhabit mulch beds, flowerbeds, gutters, and under palm trees (palmettos), which is how they got their name. They can also enter homes through plumbing systems and are frequently found near drains and pipes, including sewers.ย
Palmetto bug infestations pose significant health risks. Their droppings, saliva, and shed skins contain allergens that can trigger allergies and asthma, causing symptoms like sneezing, skin rashes, and asthma attacks. Palmetto bugs can also carry harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella, leading to disease transmission when they contaminate food and surfaces. Their mere presence compromises your home’s hygiene, so itโs crucial to address infestations as soon as possible.
Prevention is the best way to keep palmetto bugs out of your home. Here are some simple steps you can take:
Getting rid of palmetto bugs can be challenging due to their resilience and ability to hide in hard-to-reach places. While insecticides and store-bought products may get rid of some of these pests, they often fail to address the actual root of the problem. They typically offer only temporary relief, missing hidden nests and failing to prevent future infestations.ย
To ensure the problem is fully resolved, it’s best to hire a professional pest control service. Professionals have the expertise and advanced tools needed to provide comprehensive treatments that not only eradicate existing palmetto bugs but also destroy nests and implement preventive measures to keep them from returning. By attacking the infestation at its source, a professional palmetto bug exterminator can offer long-term protection that is much more effective.ย
In addition to the American Cockroach, you may come across these species:
Dealing with cockroaches can be overwhelming and nearly impossible to handle on your own. At Hawx Pest Control, we offer expert palmetto bug pest control services tailored to your specific needs and the layout of your property. Our trained professionals use state-of-the-art equipment and proven methods to control cockroach infestations and help prevent them from happening again.
Don’t let palmetto bugs take over your property. Contact Hawx Pest Control today for a free consultation and take the first step toward a healthy home thatโs rid of cockroaches.ย
Our experts continually monitor the pest control space,and we update our articles when the new inforation becomes available.
Edited by
Kurt Freudensberger
Copy reviewed by
Michelle Sanchez
Scientifically reviewed by
Daniel Baldwin. BCE. CCFS, CP-FS
Edited by
Kurt Freudensberger
Copy Reviewed by
Michelle Sanchez
Scientifically reviewed by
Learn more about the pests in this article
Palmetto Bugs
American Cockroaches
Waterbugs
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251 20th Street, Suite 200,
Ogden, Utah, 84401
United States
Contact