German Cockroach Facts
- Size: 1/2 inches in length
- Color: Tan to light honey brownish
How to Identify German Cockroaches
One of the most common species of roaches, the German cockroach is also one of the smaller species of roaches. A distinguishing characteristic of the German cockroach is the two dark horizontal stripes behind its head on its back (separated by a lighter stripe), which run lengthwise on the body. The German adult males and females have fully grown wings and can fly short distances, although they rarely do.
German Cockroach Behavior
German cockroaches are typically found in homes, apartments, restaurants, and other buildings where food is stored, prepared, or served. German cockroaches eat all kinds of food and may hitchhike into the home in search of food and moisture. This species avoids lights and prefers to live near moisture sources and in humid areas given their general aversion to the cold. German cockroaches can proliferate quickly and usually nest around the kitchen and bathroom near food and moisture.
German cockroaches prefer to live in cracks and crevices near food sources and spend an overwhelming majority of their time in these harborages. German cockroaches prefer to live close to sources of food and water, hence their affinity for kitchens. German cockroaches have a high need for moisture and usually travel only 10 to 12 feet from their harborage for food and water (in kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, etc.), preferring darkness. Without food or water, adults may die in two weeks, but can live for a month with only water.
German Roach Photos
German Roach
German Roach Covered in Pesticide
German Roach
Closeup of a German Roach
