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

Recent American Cockroach sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

Spot a American Cockroach? Identify it instantly.

Point Huck at any plant or animal and get an instant ID, rarity, and field notes — building your personal nature collection as you go.

Get Huck — free

More insects & arthropods

13-Year Periodical Cicada
13-Year Periodical Cicada
Magicicada tredecim
Acmon Blue
Acmon Blue
Plebejus acmon
Acorn Ant
Acorn Ant
Temnothorax curvispinosus
Acorn Weevil
Acorn Weevil
Curculio glandium
Aerial Yellowjacket
Aerial Yellowjacket
Dolichovespula arenaria
Alderfly
Alderfly
Sialis lutaria
Alfalfa Leafcutting Bee
Alfalfa Leafcutting Bee
Megachile rotundata
Ambush Bug
Ambush Bug
Phymata americana