American Cockroach

Scientific Name: Periplaneta americana

Order & Family: Order Blattodea, Family Blattidae

Size: 34 to 53 mm (1.4 to 2.1 inches) in length

American Cockroach

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark, and warm environments such as basements, sewers, and steam tunnels; commonly found in residential and commercial buildings.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous and opportunistic scavenger; eats decaying organic matter, starchy materials, crumbs, pet food, and even paper products.

Behavior Patterns

Primarily nocturnal, fast-running, and capable of short flights; females produce oothecae (egg cases) and populations thrive in high humidity.

Risks & Benefits

Significant pest that can spread bacteria, pathogens, and allergens; benefits include acting as a decomposer in its natural outdoor ecosystem.

Identified on: 6/10/2026