Cockroaches
German Cockroach
The most common indoor cockroach in Ontario apartments, restaurants and kitchens. Small, fast-breeding and hard to get rid of without professional help.
Photo coming soon
Quick facts
- Size
- 12–15 mm
- Colour
- Tan with two dark stripes behind the head
- Active season
- Year-round indoors
- Where found
- Kitchens, bathrooms, behind appliances, multi-unit buildings
How to Identify
- Small, tan to light brown cockroach
- Two dark parallel stripes on the shield behind the head
- Females carry a light-brown egg case at the tail end
Signs to Look For
- Cockroaches seen at night around sinks, stoves and fridges
- Pepper-like droppings in cabinets and drawers
- Egg cases and shed skins in cracks
- Daytime sightings — a sign of a large infestation
Why It Matters
- Spread bacteria to food and surfaces
- Allergens linked to asthma, especially in children
- Breed very quickly — numbers can multiply within weeks
- A common cause of failed health inspections
Prevention Tips
- Clean grease and crumbs daily, including behind appliances
- Don’t leave dishes or pet food out overnight
- Seal cracks around pipes and cabinets
- Check boxes and deliveries before bringing them inside
More Cockroaches
Related Pests
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American Cockroach
The largest common cockroach — reddish-brown and able to glide short distances.
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Photo coming soon
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Brown-Banded Cockroach
A small cockroach with two light bands across its body.
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Oriental Cockroach
A dark, shiny cockroach that thrives in cool, damp places like basements, crawl spaces and floor drains.
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