Cockroach oothecae (egg cases), likely German cockroach

Warm, humid indoor areas—especially kitchens, bathrooms, wall voids, and behind appliances. They shelter in cracks near food, water, and heat.

Omnivorous scavengers consuming crumbs, grease, starches, pet food, cardboard, and organic debris. They may also feed on soap, glue, and other nonfood materials.

Mostly nocturnal and fast-moving; they hide communally and reproduce rapidly. Females commonly carry the egg case until shortly before hatching, and infestations can spread through small cracks and transported items.

They can contaminate food and surfaces and spread allergens associated with asthma and dermatitis. They provide little household benefit, though they are decomposers in natural ecosystems.