Spotted Mediterranean Cockroach

Natural Habitat

Primarily outdoor species, found in leaf litter, gardens, woodpiles, compost heaps, and other areas with decaying plant material. They may enter homes accidentally, especially attracted to lights at night.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on decaying plant matter, fungi, and other organic debris. Unlike many common indoor cockroaches, they are not typically considered scavengers of human food.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal; attracted to lights; males are strong fliers and are often found indoors after flying to lights; females are generally flightless. They overwinter as nymphs.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest indoors, but do not typically infest homes or transmit diseases like other cockroach species because they do not scavenge human food or live in unsanitary conditions. Benefits include breaking down organic matter in their natural habitat.

Identified on: 9/2/2025