Cockroach Droppings (Feces)
Scientific Name: Not applicable (These are feces, not an organism)
Order & Family: From cockroaches, which belong to the Order Blattodea
Size: Varies significantly depending on the cockroach species and age. Can range from fine, black pepper-like specks for smaller roaches to larger, dark brown or black cylindrical pellets (1-3 mm) with blunt ends for larger roaches.
Natural Habitat
Typically found in areas where cockroaches forage and hide, such as kitchens, bathrooms, cabinets, drawers, and behind appliances or in dark cracks and crevices.
Diet & Feeding
The droppings are a byproduct of the cockroach's diet. Cockroaches are omnivorous scavengers and will eat almost any organic matter, including food scraps, grease, starch, glue, paper, and dead insects.
Behavior Patterns
Droppings are left behind as cockroaches travel, often near their nesting areas or food sources. They are nocturnal insects, so droppings accumulate from their nighttime activity. The feces contain pheromones that attract other cockroaches to the area.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: The primary risk is that these droppings confirm a cockroach infestation. Cockroaches can contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria (like Salmonella and E. coli) and their shed skins and feces can trigger allergies and asthma attacks. Benefits: None in a human environment; their presence is a health concern.
Identified on: 10/5/2025