Cockroaches
Oriental Cockroach
A dark, shiny cockroach that thrives in cool, damp places like basements, crawl spaces and floor drains.
Quick facts
- Size
- 2.5–3 cm
- Colour
- Dark brown to black, glossy
- Active season
- Year-round; most active in warm months
- Where found
- Basements, crawl spaces, drains, damp areas
How to Identify
- Large, dark, shiny cockroach
- Short wings or small wing pads — cannot fly
- Slow-moving compared with other cockroaches
Signs to Look For
- Cockroaches in basements, floor drains and laundry rooms
- A strong, musty odour
- Large, dark droppings
- Egg cases near damp areas
Why It Matters
- Feed on garbage and decaying matter, spreading bacteria
- Contaminate food and surfaces
- Often a sign of moisture or drain problems
Prevention Tips
- Fix leaks and use a dehumidifier in damp areas
- Keep floor drains covered and seal gaps at ground level
- Clear leaf litter and debris near foundations
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German Cockroach
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