Color: The female is all black, while the male has two brown wings.

The female oriental cockroach differs in appearance from the male which often leads homeowners to believe they have two types of cockroaches. The female is black, oval in shape, and has no wings -- only two small wing pads just behind the thoracic "shield." The male is thinner in shape, about the same length, and has two brown wings that extend partway down the abdomen.

Behavior – The oriental cockroach is a pest in homes throughout much of the United States. It is rarely seen in southeastern states, however. During the summer, oriental cockroaches move outdoors where they may venture into neighboring buildings. During the colder months, they reinvade homes, establishing themselves in basements and crawl spaces.

Habitat – This cockroach commonly inhabits sewers and storm culverts and will enter buildings through floor drains. It will also live outdoors in firewood, leaf litter, sheds, dog houses, and similar locations. Indoors, the basement, crawl space, and occasionally the attic will be the primary harborage for this pest.

Tips for Control –

• Eliminating or minimizing potential harborages outside is the best way to limit infestations of these cockroaches.
  
• Sealing cracks in the building's exterior helps prevent these pests from entering.
  
• Installing screening in all vents is important.