American Cockroach

Natural Habitat

Warm, damp areas such as sewers, basements, and kitchens, but can also live outdoors in leafy mulch and hollow trees.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous and opportunistic feeder; eats decaying organic matter, leftovers, book bindings, and paper.

Behavior Patterns

Mainly nocturnal, fast-running, and capable of flight in warm weather; follows pheromone trails to find food and shelter.

Risks & Benefits

A major pest that can spread bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, and provoke allergies or asthma; ecologically acts as a scavenger and recycler.

Identified on: 6/18/2026