German Cockroach

German cockroaches  are the most common roaches found in houses and restaurants.

Looks like

The German cockroach is about 3/4 inch long and is tan or light brown in color. 

Environment

They usually cluster together in large numbers inside cracks and crevices near warm areas with high humidity. 

Usual location

German cockroaches are most common in the kitchen. They prefer to hide under or around sinks, appliances, cupboards and baseboards.

Diet

They eat food of all kinds including cosmetics, paste, soap, and paper products. 

Life Cycle

German cockroaches live about 150 days and a female can produce 320 young. 

Health Risks

German cockroaches are known to carry disease organisms on their bodies and in their feces. They can transfer these organisms to surfaces and food that they crawl across while foraging. Because German cockroaches are active at night, they have been known to invade the ear canals and nostrils of sleeping children. However, the most significant health issue associated with German cockroach infestation is allergies. German cockroaches produce large numbers of allergens on their bodies and in their feces. These allergens can become air-borne and cause respiratory problems in children and the elderly. As a matter of fact, German cockroach infestations have been identified as the number one cause of asthma in inner-city children.