Updated November 2, 2026 · Reviewed by a licensed Uniform pest control operator before publication. Product labels and your technician's written instructions always come first.
The two you're most likely to see
| Palmetto bugs (large outdoor roaches) | German cockroaches | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large, often well over an inch | Small, about half an inch |
| Where they live | Outdoors: mulch, palms, leaf litter, storm drains | Indoors: kitchens, baths, appliances |
| How they get in | Gaps, doors, drains, especially after rain | Brought in on boxes, bags and appliances |
| What one sighting means | Often a wanderer from outside | Likely a breeding population indoors |
| Typical approach | Exterior treatment, sealing and moisture fixes | An intensive indoor program with follow-up |
Don't rely on looks alone
Size and color vary with age, and several large species live in Florida. Before treatment, a technician should confirm the species and look for where they're living. For species background, see UF/IFAS Extension publications.
When to call
- Small roaches seen more than once indoors
- Roaches during the day
- Droppings or egg cases in cabinets
- Large roaches indoors week after week