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About Jack DeAngelis
Expertise
I can answer questions in any area of entomology (study of insects, spiders, mites, ticks, and other terrestrial arthropods). Contact me about home and garden insects, insects that bite and sting, and insects that damage homes such as carpenter ants and termites.

Experience
20 years as university extension entomologist, now retired; currently publish a website about home and garden insects.

Publications
see www.livingwithbugs.com/resume.html

Education/Credentials
Ph.D. in Entomology

 
   

You are here:  Experts > Science > Insects/Spiders > Entomology (Study of Bugs) > Not something i want to keep waking up to

Entomology (Study of Bugs) - Not something i want to keep waking up to


Expert: Jack DeAngelis - 11/5/2009

Question
This morning i found a bug on my bathroom floor. It was ~1.5 - 2 inches long. Light tan color. No visible legs. Two antennas protruding from the head. It narrowed to form somewhat of a tail-like appearance. Moved fairly fast, slithered like a snake. I live in Sedalia, MO USA.  

Answer
Amanda,

There are not a lot of insects as large as you describe that are commonly found indoors. One that fits your description, however, is the American cockroach. This insect is a common pest especially in older buildings. It is about the size and color you describe, has antennae and moves in a side to side kind of gait. Here's an article about cockroaches http://www.livingwithbugs.com/cockroaches.html and you can follow the link to control information.

If you live in an apartment building cockroach control can be fairly difficult but if you live in a single family home than you should be able to get this under control.

Post a follow up after you've looked over this material if you have questions. Also, if you can post a picture I'd be able to confirm the id.

Jack DeAngelis
http://www.livingwithbugs.com  

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