Western Subterranean Termite vs Brown Cockroach

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Western Subterranean Termite Brown Cockroach
Scientific Name Reticulitermes hesperus Periplaneta brunnea
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Rhinotermitidae Blattidae
Size 4–8 mm 25-35 mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Wood Feeders Omnivores
Regions Western North America Pantropical, southeastern United States
Conservation Not Evaluated Not Evaluated

Western Subterranean Termite

The most common structural pest termite in western North America. Colonies build extensive underground tunnel networks connecting to above-ground wood sources.

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Did You Know?

A single colony can contain over one million individuals and forage across an area of half an acre.

Brown Cockroach

A glossy reddish-brown cockroach often confused with the American cockroach. It is slightly smaller with a more uniform color.

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Did You Know?

It glues its egg cases to surfaces rather than dropping them, unlike the American cockroach.