Bug Identifier
Pennsylvania wood cockroach
Community identification

Pennsylvania wood cockroach

Parcoblatta pennsylvanica

Order & Family
Order Blattodea, Family Ectobiidae
Size
Approximately 1/2 to 1 1/4 inches (13 to 32 mm) in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in wooded areas under tree bark, in wood piles, or in decaying logs. They occasionally wander indoors, especially during mating season or when attracted to lights.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on decaying organic matter, such as rotting leaves, wood, and plant material.

Behavior Patterns

Males have long wings and are strong flyers attracted to lights at night, while females have shorter, non-functional wings and cannot fly. They are typically solitary and do not infest homes like German cockroaches.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered a nuisance rather than a health risk; they do not reproduce well indoors and do not cause property damage. They benefit the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter and serving as prey for other animals.