| Scientific name | Blatta orientalis |
|---|---|
| Group | Cockroaches |
| Size | 25–30 mm (up to about 1.2 in) |
| Colors | Black and Brown |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Basement or garage and Bathroom |
| Most active | Spring and Summer |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The Oriental cockroach is a medium-sized member of the cockroaches group. Flat, oval bodies, long antennae and a shield covering the head. Check for these three features:
- Glossy black or very dark brown body
- Short wings in males and wing stubs in females
- Slow-moving, found in damp, cool areas
About this bug
A shiny, dark brown to black cockroach that prefers cool, damp places such as basements, drains and crawl spaces. Females have tiny wing pads, and neither sex can fly.
You'll usually find Oriental cockroaches in basements and garages and in the bathroom. They are most active in spring and summer.
Is it dangerous?
Oriental cockroaches feed on garbage and sewage and can spread bacteria to surfaces.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
When you'll see Oriental cockroaches
Oriental Cockroaches are most active in spring and summer. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly.
Typical places to check: basement or garage and bathroom.
About cockroaches
The Oriental 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
- Fix leaks and dehumidify basements
- Seal gaps under doors and around pipes
- Place bait stations near drains and damp corners
Read the full guide: how to get rid of Oriental cockroaches.
Bugs that look similar
Size: American Cockroaches are larger, reaching 53 mm, while Oriental cockroaches top out around 30 mm.
Group: Oriental Cockroach belongs to cockroaches, while ground beetle belongs to beetles. Flat, oval bodies, long antennae and a shield covering the head.
Size: Smokybrown Cockroaches are larger, reaching 38 mm, while Oriental cockroaches top out around 30 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does an Oriental cockroach look like?
Glossy black or very dark brown body. Adults measure 25–30 mm (up to about 1.2 in).
Does the Oriental cockroach bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Oriental cockroaches feed on garbage and sewage and can spread bacteria to surfaces.
Where do Oriental cockroaches live?
Oriental Cockroaches live in basements and garages and in the bathroom.
When are Oriental cockroaches most active?
Mostly in spring and summer.