Turkestan Cockroaches
Turkestan cockroaches are a rapidly spreading invasive species that has become the dominant outdoor cockroach in much of the southwestern United States, displacing the oriental cockroach in many areas. Males are brownish-orange with long wings and can fly, while females are dark brown to black with short, vestigial wings. They were first introduced to the United States at military bases in the 1970s and have since spread to California, Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico. They are commonly found in water meter boxes, planter boxes, cracks in concrete, and around compost areas.
Species in This Group (1)
Key Behaviors
Turkestan cockroaches are peridomestic, thriving in the interface between outdoor and indoor environments. They commonly inhabit irrigation valve boxes, water meter boxes, cracks in stucco, and ground-level gaps in foundations. Males fly to porch lights on warm evenings. They reproduce more rapidly than oriental cockroaches, contributing to their displacement of that species in the Southwest.
Risks & Concerns
Turkestan cockroaches contaminate homes and food preparation areas when they enter from outdoor harborage. Their large populations in utility boxes and foundation cracks create persistent reinfestation pressure. The flying males are particularly alarming to homeowners. Their rapid population growth and displacement of other species suggest they will continue expanding their range.
Identification Tip
Females closely resemble oriental cockroaches but are slightly lighter in color. Males are lighter-colored than male oriental cockroaches and fly more readily. They have largely displaced oriental cockroaches throughout the Southwest due to faster reproduction rates.
Need Help With Turkestan cockroaches?
If you're seeing signs of turkestan cockroaches in or around your home, professional treatment is the fastest way to stop the problem. Lotus Pest Control offers free inspections to identify the issue and recommend the right solution.