
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.
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.