Bugs That Look Like Cockroaches But Aren’t

Imposter Syndrome: Bugs That Look Like Cockroaches But Aren’t

You will likely hear crickets before you see them—these are bugs that look like cockroaches but aren’t. At a distance, crickets look identical to cockroaches but they reveal their true shape when seen up close.

Elongated brown and black shiny bodies characterize both insects and they typically share similar dimensions measuring between 1-2 inches long. Crickets jump higher and further than cockroaches due to their stronger hind legs and reveal their true identity when they move around or start their famous chirping sounds.

Certain beetle species resemble cockroaches yet they are distinct from them. Before you decide to chase away these beetle-like bugs with your shoe, check their appearance because their shiny armored bodies may trick you into thinking they are cockroaches.

In the bug world, ground beetles really shine because they protect your garden rather than invading your home. These cockroach-like bugs are not cockroaches and they feed on other pests. Cockroaches crave the snacks that belong to you.

Homeowners face serious problems when they spot either pest because our professional pest control services are necessary to eliminate both. German cockroaches live off leftover food in your kitchen and termites silently deteriorate your house through their internal consumption of wooden structures.

Residents of Florida and South Carolina refer to cockroaches as palmetto bugs which they use because these insects like to hide inside palmetto trees. People from South Carolina humorously named these flying pests “the state bird”.

Yes, you heard that right–THEY FLY. Unlike American or German cockroaches which move around in groups, this flying cockroach species known as palmetto bugs prefer solitude when flying.

Don’t Judge a Bug By Its Shell

Cockroaches have survived through millions of years beginning from the time dinosaurs roamed the Earth. So they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. The world contains many bugs that look like cockroaches but aren’t, and with 4,000 distinct species they all possess specialized survival techniques. The survival skills of cockroaches are the reason they have persisted for such an extended period of time.

Cockroaches transport numerous diseases and bacteria which they deposit on every surface they come into contact with. By cleaning your home regularly, keeping it sealed from cracks, and hiring professional pest control services you can prevent these pests from distributing germs throughout your home.

Fun Facts About Cockroaches

Cockroach Fact #1: Cockroaches can live without their heads

Cockroaches stay alive for seven days post-decapitation because their decapitation does not lead to death. Cockroaches receive oxygen through bodily holes in their segments instead of their mouth or head which most creatures use for breathing. The headless cockroaches die because of dehydration.

Cockroach Fact #2: Cockroaches are speedy little suckers

They are speed demons. Cockroaches hold a record among insects for running speeds because they can reach three miles per hour. Despite appearing slow to humans their speed helps cockroaches avoid threats. Have you ever tried to catch one? Good luck!

Cockroach Fact #3: These resilient pests can hold their breath

The ability to hold their breath makes cockroaches capable of staying underwater. Cockroaches manage to survive underwater because they can remain without breathing for up to 40 minutes. Because they can hold their breath for 40 minutes, cockroaches have escaped from many dangers.

Cockroach Fact #4: They are ancient

While there are many bugs that look like cockroaches but aren’t, roaches have existed for more than 300 million years having survived mass extinction events as well as extreme environmental shifts and nuclear detonations. They are virtually indestructible as a species.

Cockroach Fact #5:  Cockroach moms are almost as protective as yours

Female cockroaches are overprotective. They exhibit unexpected maternal care for their offspring. The hard case with eggs remains with female cockroaches until the eggs develop enough to hatch. Cockroaches that do not transport their egg casings instead find hidden spots where the eggs remain unseen.

Cockroach Fact #6: Cockroaches are super survivors

Our friend the cockroach survives both intense radiation exposure and living for a month without food.

Whereas when afternoon snacks don’t arrive on time humans start feeling hangry.

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