Mon, 04 May 2026 21:11:51 +0000

This Common Bug Looks Like a Cockroach, But It’s the Palmetto Bug — Here’s the Freezing Difference! When you spot a large, dark insect scurrying across your kitchen floor or hiding in a dark corner, it’s natural to squint and wonder: Is this a cockroach… or a Palmetto Bug? While they share striking similarities—dark brown or black coloring, oval-shaped bodies, and quick movements—these two household pests are actually quite different. Understanding the freezing differences can help you identify the real menace in your home and respond appropriately. ### What Is the Palmetto Bug? The term “Palmetto Bug” isn’t a scientific classification but a common name used in the southern United States for large cockroaches, particularly Periplaneta fuliginosa, commonly known as the smoky brown cockroach. However, many people colloquially refer to any large, dark roach hailing from palmetto trees or damp, humid areas as the “Palmetto Bug.” In reality, Palmetto Bugs are a specific type—strongly associated with outdoor palmetto and cycad trees, yet they frequently invade homes seeking moisture.