Several species of cockroach can be found in Oklahoma. Though in many ways the species have similar foraging and dwelling practices, different pest control methods may be required between the species. Professional help may be necessary for controlling and eradicating the cockroach population in your home.

• American Cockroach – Commonly found in restaurants or other places food is prepared or stored, the American cockroach exhibit a reddish-brown color. American cockroaches develop wings when they become adults are one of the species that have the ability to fly. Typically, American cockroaches will live outdoors in warm, damp areas, however; they will colonize homes in search of water and food. When indoors American Cockroaches will forage for crumbs and spilled food. American cockroaches are also notorious for eating pet food when left out overnight.
• Brownbanded Cockroach – The smallest of invasive cockroach species, the adult brown banded only reaches nearly 15mm in length. This species derives its name from the light brown and tan coloring present on its wings. Brownbanded cockroaches generally prefer areas that have temperatures higher than 80 degrees Fahrenheit and exhibit low levels of humidity. Given these conditions, this species tends to be found around frequently used appliances and in attics. Brownbanded cockroaches will eat most anything but tend to prefer food sources high in starch.
• German Cockroach – German cockroaches can be found worldwide, and are one of the most sighted species indoors. Identification of this particular species is particularly easy given their light brown coloration with two black stripes behind its head. Though German cockroaches possess wings, they rarely use them, relying on running instead. This species can typically be found in kitchens and bathrooms due to the moisture sources available, but can expand their territory within a home if habitable. As a scavenging species, German cockroaches will feed on anything, including toothpaste and soap.
• Oriental Cockroach – Primarily an outdoor species, oriental cockroaches are characterized by the varying appearance between male and females. The larger of the two, the female, lacks wings and instead is covered by wing pads and can grow up to just over one inch in length. The smaller, male oriental cockroach has visible abdominal segments underneath apparent wings. Though both have wing-like structures, neither is capable of flight. This species is incredibly dependent on water sources and tends to feed on garbage and rotting organic material. For this reason, they can mostly be found in crawlspaces and underneath porches.
• Smokybrown Cockroach – The most suited species for flight, the smokybrown cockroach gets its name from its brown and black coloration. The wings that extend beyond the smokybrown cockroaches body make it an excellent flier. This species cannot survive without a moist environment due to their predisposition to dehydration. Smokybrown cockroaches feed on food scraps, plant materials, fecal matter and other decomposing insects.