WOOD COCKROACH INFORMATION & FACTS

Wood roach nymph (0.5 inch)

Wood cockroaches, also known as Pennsylvania wood roach, pine bugs and cedar bugs, are common outdoor and indoor dwelling insects native to North America and found throughout Ontario. Their normal habitat is moist woodland areas but they frequently become a cottage, home and business nuisance pest in Ontario's Cottage Country particular around Georgian Bay, Muskoka, Lake of bays, and anywhere in Ontario cottage country.

Wood roaches are very similar in appearance to the common household cockroach called the American roach; flat, oval body, long antennae, spiny legs, chestnut brown color. However, wood roaches are slightly smaller, about 3/4 to 1 1/4 inch long, and the adults, especially the males, appear tan because of the color of their wings. Adults and large nymphs of the wood roach can be recognized by a pale, creamy white or transparent stripe on the outer edge on the thorax. The pale edge extends onto the first 1/3 of the front wings of the adults. Positive identification of small nymphs is more difficult and usually requires microscopic examination.

Wood roaches are not secretive; like their cousins and they are active both during the day and at night and they are less likely to scamper out of sight when approached. Also, they will wander about the house without congregating in any particular location.

Females cannot fly, but males can, and are attracted to lights at night. Limiting porch light use from May to October, can help keep them away. For advice and support in addressing issues with this pest type, contact a professional pest control company.