Firebrat

Natural Habitat

Warm and moist environments with high temperatures (often above 90°F), such as bakeries, heating ducts, and areas near furnaces or water heaters.

Diet & Feeding

Broad diet consisting of carbohydrates and proteins; they consume flour, book bindings, starch, glue, wallpaper paste, and occasionally textiles.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving. They undergo a hemimetabolous life cycle (incomplete metamorphosis) and are known for their longevity, often living over two years and continuing to molt throughout their lives.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered nuisance pests as they can damage household items like books, paper, and food supplies. They do not bite humans and do not spread disease, but their presence can lead to contamination of food stores.

Identified on: 4/20/2026