American Cockroach

Need Help?

Get in touch with one of our experts.

Identification

  • Physical description:
    • Large, reddish-brown cockroach, 1.5 to 2 inches long.
    • Yellowish band behind the head.
    • Flat, oval-shaped body.
    • Long antennae and six legs.
  • Habitat:
    • Prefer warm, damp environments.
    • Found in sewers, basements, crawl spaces, kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas with high humidity.
    • Can also be found outdoors around buildings and in decaying vegetation.
  • Feeding habits:
    • Omnivorous scavengers.
    • Feed on a wide range of organic matter, including:
      • Food scraps
      • Garbage
      • Dead insects
      • Feces
      • Paper
      • Cardboard

Behaviour

  • Life cycle:
    • Incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult).
    • Eggs are laid in a protective capsule called an ootheca.
    • Nymphs resemble adults but are smaller and wingless.
    • Life cycle takes several months, with adults living for around a year.
  • Activity patterns:
    • Nocturnal, most active at night.
    • Can be seen during the day if heavily infested.

Signs of Infestation

  • Visual signs:
    • Live or dead cockroaches.
    • Fecal matter (dark, pepper-like droppings).
    • Egg capsules (oothecae).
    • Shed skin.
    • Stains or smear marks on walls and surfaces.
  • Behavioural signs:
    • Musty odor, especially in humid areas.
    • Increased sightings of other insects attracted by cockroaches (e.g., ants, spiders).

Health Risks

  • Potential health hazards:
    • Can carry and transmit bacteria and pathogens, causing food poisoning and other illnesses.
    • Allergens from their droppings and shed skin can trigger allergies and asthma in some individuals.
    • Can contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria, making them a public health concern.