Tawny Cockroach

Scientific Name: Ectobius pallidus

Order & Family: Order Blattodea, Family Ectobiidae

Size: 8 to 12 mm in length

Tawny Cockroach

Natural Habitat

Typically found outdoors in gardens, woodlots, and low vegetation; they are not indoor-breeding pests

Diet & Feeding

Primarily decomposition-focused, eating organic detritus and leaf litter

Behavior Patterns

Active during the day (diurnal), unlike many common indoor pests; they can fly and are often attracted to porch lights

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans and does not infest homes; serves as a beneficial decomposer in ecosystems

Identified on: 5/21/2026