Tawny Cockroach

Scientific Name: Ectobius pallidus

Order & Family: Blattodea: Ectobiidae

Size: 8 to 12 mm in length

Tawny Cockroach

Natural Habitat

Coastal forests, gardens, and shrubbery; often found in leaf litter and mulch.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous scavenger, primarily feeding on decaying organic matter, leaf litter, and lichen.

Behavior Patterns

Unlike domestic pests, they are active during the day and are strong fliers; they are often attracted to lights at night but do not typically infest indoor environments.

Risks & Benefits

They pose no significant risk to humans and are not indoor pests; they benefit the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients.

Identified on: 6/22/2026