Spotting a large, reddish-brown cockroach scurrying across your kitchen floor can be alarming — especially when you realize you’ve just seen an American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) , one of the largest and most resilient pest species in the world.
But before you panic, take a breath.
Seeing one (or more) of these insects isn’t a sign of bad luck, karma, or a haunted house — it’s a practical warning about your home environment .
Let’s dive into what American cockroaches are , why they’re in your home , and what you should do about them — no myths, no fear-mongering — just facts and solutions .
🪳 Meet the American Cockroach: Fast Facts
Despite the name, American cockroaches are not native to the Americas — they originated in Africa and spread globally through trade.
🔬 Key Characteristics:
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