| Scientific name | Blattella germanica |
|---|---|
| Group | Cockroaches |
| Size | 12–15 mm (up to about 0.59 in) |
| Colors | Tan and Brown |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Kitchen and Bathroom |
| Most active | Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The German cockroach is a small member of the cockroaches group. Flat, oval bodies, long antennae and a shield covering the head. Check for these three features:
- Light tan to brown body about half an inch long
- Two dark parallel stripes behind the head
- Hides near warm appliances, sinks and cabinet hinges
About this bug
A small, light-brown cockroach that breeds rapidly in kitchens and bathrooms, especially in apartments and restaurants. Females carry their egg case until it is ready to hatch.
You'll usually find German cockroaches in the kitchen and in the bathroom. They are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter.
Is it dangerous?
German cockroaches contaminate food, and their droppings and shed skins are a major asthma trigger.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
When you'll see German cockroaches
German Cockroaches are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings. In winter, activity continues mainly indoors in heated spaces.
Typical places to check: kitchen and bathroom.
About cockroaches
The German cockroach is one of the cockroaches. Cockroaches are ancient, flat-bodied insects that hide in narrow cracks during the day and forage at night. Females produce egg cases called oothecae, each holding a dozen to about 40 eggs depending on the species. Nymphs look like small, wingless adults.
Seeing a cockroach during the day can be a sign of a large population, because crowded hiding spots push some roaches out into the open.
What to do about it
- Clean up grease and crumbs and fix dripping faucets
- Apply gel baits in cracks near food and water sources
- Call a professional for heavy or apartment-wide infestations
Read the full guide: how to get rid of German cockroaches.
Bugs that look similar
Where found: look for German cockroaches in the kitchen and in the bathroom; brown-banded cockroaches turn up in bedrooms and beds and in the kitchen.
Size: American Cockroaches are larger, reaching 53 mm, while German cockroaches top out around 15 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does a German cockroach look like?
Light tan to brown body about half an inch long. Adults measure 12–15 mm (up to about 0.59 in).
Does the German cockroach bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. German cockroaches contaminate food, and their droppings and shed skins are a major asthma trigger.
Where do German cockroaches live?
German Cockroaches live in the kitchen and in the bathroom.
When are German cockroaches most active?
Mostly in spring, summer, fall and winter.