Palmetto Bugs vs Cockroaches

What Are Palmetto Bugs?

Palmetto bugs are regular cockroaches that are found in the Southeast, especially in South Carolina and Florida. It is a general term that refers to many cockroach species, and sometimes even large beetles. However, since roaches can vary in attributes from region to region, there are a few things that set roaches in the Southeast apart, giving into the idea that “palmetto bugs” are their own species.

Palmetto Bug Size

Palmetto bugs are roaches that can grow much larger than your average household roach. Due to the favorable living conditions in South Carolina, palmetto bugs can grow up to 3 inches long, which is twice as long as the average cockroach. They might technically be the same type of bug, but here in the palmetto state, they can be way more intimidating!

Do Palmetto Bugs Fly?

Palmetto bugs do not fly in a traditional sense, but a lot of them have wings. Many people are under the assumption that palmetto bugs are “flying cockroaches,” but in reality, most cockroaches have wings! However, they are small, and only used for things such as mating, protection, and jumping. It can be easy to feel like seeing a roach with wings means you’ve entered a horror movie, but you can rest assured that this is pretty normal. 

Differences Between Palmetto Bugs vs Cockroaches

In summary, while palmetto bugs are technically just cockroaches, there are key differences that make the roaches a little bit different here in South Carolina. If you ever find yourself in a debate on whether or not there’s any difference between the two, you can remember the following:

• Geographic distribution. Palmetto bugs are found here in the Southeast, particularly on the coast or in other areas with large bodies of water. 
• Size. Roaches here can grow up to twice the size of the average American roach, making palmetto bugs generally much larger.
• Color. Many “palmetto bugs” are actually smokybrown cockroaches, which are particular fans of the warm, humid weather. They are usually very dark brown. 
• Habitat. Palmetto bugs prefer dark, damp places, while roaches you find in other regions might be more likely to reside in other conditions. 

How to Get Rid of Palmetto Bugs

Getting rid of palmetto bugs, or any roach for that matter, can be a daunting task. Even if you have all the right tools, nobody wants to deal with a roach infestation. However, all roaches and palmetto bugs can be carriers of harmful bacteria and diseases, such as Cholera and Dysentery. Even if they aren’t carrying a disease, they can cause damage by chewing through your belongings and leaving droppings throughout your home. If you’re up for the task, here are a few household items you can leave in high activity areas to attract and kill them:

• One part borax with one part powdered sugar
• Baking soda
• Diatomaceous earth
• Essential oils, especially peppermint

Professional Palmetto Bug Removal

It can be difficult to get rid of any bug infestation on your own, but roaches are particularly stubborn. If you’ve tried the DIY methods, but still need some help, call Beach Pest Service! As a locally owned pest control company here in Myrtle Beach, we are experts in palmetto bug removal. Give us a call today to get your free quote on cockroach control.