Species Insects & ArthropodsAmerican Cockroach

American Cockroach

Periplaneta americana

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana)

The American Cockroach is the largest common cockroach in North America despite originating in Africa, reaching over 1.5 inches with reddish-brown wings marked by a pale border on the thorax. It is capable of flight when temperatures are warm. It thrives in sewers, steam tunnels, and warm moist buildings and is a significant allergen source for asthma sufferers.

Habitat
Sewers, basements, steam tunnels, and warm buildings
Diet
Adults and nymphs: decaying organic material, plant and animal matter
How common
Common

Best time to see a American Cockroach

The best time to see a American Cockroach is April–September, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 14,742 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Not certain it is a American Cockroach? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.

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