How to Get Rid of Flying Cockroaches in Florida

If you live in Florida, chances are that something is a flying cockroach—probably an American cockroach or another species commonly referred to as a palmetto bug. They are a sign that something in or around your home is attracting them, and that your property may already be facing an infestation.

In this article, you’ll learn how to get rid of flying cockroaches in Florida and how to make sure they don’t come back.

Key Takeaways

• Flying cockroaches in Florida include several reddish-brown species that can carry bacteria and trigger allergic reactions.
• Indoor roaches survive on crumbs, pet food, standing water, and damp spaces like basements and crawl spaces.
• Sealing small cracks with caulk and weatherstripping keeps roaches from sneaking in through gaps around your home.
• Outdoor clutter, egg cases, and droppings signal infestation, and professional pest control prevents it from getting worse.

Know Which Types of Cockroaches You’re Dealing With

Several species of cockroaches in Florida can fly or glide short distances.

The American cockroach, smoky brown cockroach, and Australian cockroach are the usual culprits. These reddish-brown or dark brown pests are often lumped together and called water bugs, but make no mistake—they’re roaches.

The Florida woods cockroach is another large species you might find near your home. While not as fast or agile, they can still slip inside, especially when it’s humid.

Unlike wasps, they aren’t looking to sting you, but they can spread allergens and bacteria like Salmonella. To sensitive people, they can trigger allergic reactions.

Reduce Access to Food, Moisture, and Shelter

Flying cockroaches need food, and they aren’t picky.

Crumbs, food debris, open pet food containers, if it’s there, they’ll find it. Regularly wipe countertops, clean floors, and don’t let dirty dishes sit overnight.

These pests also depend on moisture.

If you have leaky pipes, damp areas, or standing water under sinks or in basements, you’re giving them exactly what they need to survive. Dry out those spaces and make sure your crawl spaces get fresh air.

Roaches can thrive in the same conditions that promote termite problems, so it’s worth taking seriously.

Block Entry Points Using Caulk and Weatherstripping

Roaches get in through the smallest cracks.

Seal crevices with caulk, especially around plumbing and utility lines. Install weatherstripping around doors and windows. Your garages are especially vulnerable, as they often lead to interior access without much insulation.

Roaches don’t need an open door. They just need a gap. These pests can flatten their bodies and sneak through openings you’d never notice until it’s too late.

Clean Up Outdoor Areas That Attract Flying Roaches

Florida's warm climate creates a year-round haven for roaches to live outside and then venture in. They often hide in mulch, piles of leaves, and clutter around the foundation.

Keep woodpiles elevated and well away from the home, and trim bushes so they don’t touch the exterior walls. Don't forget gutters and drainage areas. When water backs up, it creates the perfect roach breeding environment.

Once they’re thriving outdoors, it’s only a matter of time before they come inside.

Eliminate Egg Cases, Droppings, and Young Roaches

A single roach might not seem like a big deal, but the presence of egg cases (called ootheca) or nymphs (young roaches) tells a different story. Early signs like these show that a cockroach infestation is growing.

Females tuck egg cases behind appliances or in dark corners, where you won’t easily find them. Keep an eye out for droppings, which can look like black pepper or dirt. Their presence signals active feeding and breeding nearby.

If you’re finding nymphs and adults, the infestation likely started weeks ago.

Call In Professional Pest Control Before It Spreads

If you’re seeing Florida cockroaches flying around in broad daylight, or even at night, you may already have a serious problem. DIY traps and sprays can slow things down, but for long-term results, it’s best to turn to professional pest control.

At Native Pest Management, we specialize in cockroach control that works for South Florida homes. Whether you’re dealing with German cockroaches, Asian cockroaches, or the classic American roaches, our team knows how to identify the infestation source and eliminate it effectively.

Our pest control services are designed with Florida’s climate in mind and include safe, targeted treatments that won't put your kids or pets at risk. We’ll also show you how to prevent reinfestation by sealing access points, improving ventilation, and removing attractants, inside and out.