Palmetto bugs have an exotic name, but their true nature may surprise you. Read on to learn more about this common Florida insect that’s a frequent target of Panama City pest control.
Palmetto Bugs by Any Other Name
While their name derives from their habit of hiding underneath leaves of palmetto trees, palmetto bugs are really just plain old Florida Woods cockroaches. Sometimes, these pests are referred to as water bugs, although they don’t actually live in water.
Physical Characteristics and Behavior of Palmetto Bugs
With dark to blackish-brown glossy coloring, palmetto bugs are similar in appearance to the oriental cockroach. Palmetto bugs range from one to one-and-a-half inches in length, placing them among the larger cockroach species.
Palmetto bugs love warm, humid places, which is why they’re so plentiful in Florida. Despite their large size, these roaches have flat wings and bodies that enable them to enter homes through the tiniest openings.
Are Palmetto Bugs a Threat?
Vegetables and meat, fresh or rotting, make up the palmetto bug’s diet, so they rarely bite humans. However, since roaches often live in dirty places, palmetto bugs have been known to carry salmonella, E. coli, and other harmful bacteria. Another negative is the offensive odor palmetto bugs emit when disturbed or frightened.
Your First Choice for Panama City Pest Control
No matter what type of insect or wildlife makes its way into your home, we can get them out and keep them out. Contact Arrow Pest Service for more information.