What are the tree bugs that look like roaches?

"I keep seeing roaches in trees. What are these bugs?"

You’re most likely seeing wood roaches. These are relatively big tree bugs that look like cockroaches and typically live in wooded areas, under bark, and in leaf litter. They behave a bit differently from cockroaches.

Adult wood roaches are about an inch long, brown or tan, and have long antennae. Males have wings and can fly, while females have shorter wings and stay closer to the ground.

How can I tell the difference between a wood roach and a cockroach?

Wood roaches and cockroaches can look similar, but there are a few key differences. Wood roaches are lighter in color, often tan or pale brown, whereas cockroaches tend to be darker, reddish-brown, or black. Wood roaches are also attracted to light and are often seen near porch lights or windows at night. Cockroaches tend to avoid light and hide during the day.

If you're finding them indoors, it's more likely to be a cockroach. Wood roaches that wander inside usually don't survive long and don't reproduce indoors.

Wood roaches live in forests, woodpiles, mulch, and leaf piles. If you have firewood stacked near your home, dense landscaping, or piles of leaves, you're more likely to see them nearby. You might find wood roaches in the house, especially in spring and summer when males are flying. They're not looking to infest your home; they're just passing through.

If you’re unsure whether you’re seeing cockroaches or wood roaches, our cockroach control team will be happy to inspect your property, identify the species, and advise whether any pest control treatment is necessary.