The American cockroach is the largest cockroach found in houses. Females can hatch up to 150 offspring per year. Cockroaches don't get their wings until the become adults.

DIET

American cockroaches will eat just about anything, including plants and other insects.

HABITAT

American cockroaches live in warm, dark, wet places, because they need to be near water. They are often found in sewers and basements, around pipes and drains.

IMPACT

Cockroaches crawl through dirty areas and then walk around our homes tracking in lots of bacteria and germs. They can contaminate food by shedding their skins. Their cast off skin and waste byproducts are allergens that can trigger allergic reactions, asthma and other illnesses, especially in children.

PREVENTION

Keep cooking, eating and food storage areas clean and dry. If you see cockroaches, it is best to call a pest management professional due to the illnesses they can spread.