American Cockroach

Warm, damp, humid dark spaces such as basements, sewers, drains, crawl spaces, and around plumbing.

Omnivorous scavenger that feeds on decaying organic matter, garbage, crumbs, paper, cardboard, pet food, and starchy materials.

Primarily nocturnal, fast-moving, and prefers dark areas. Capable of weak or gliding flight in warm temperatures. Females produce egg cases called oothecae.

Risks: Considered a major household pest that can contaminate food, spread bacterial pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli, and trigger asthma or allergies in humans. Benefits: In nature, acts as a decomposer that breaks down organic waste.