German Cockroach

German cockroaches usually prefer a moist environment with a relatively high degree of warmth, typically within the kitchen or bathroom. Look for them in cracks and crevices, as well as voids that are around and under cabinets and appliances. Also, inspect behind pictures, molding and in other dark, undisturbed areas. These insects are mostly scavengers and will feed on a wide variety of foods. They are especially fond of starches, sweets, grease, and meat products. In many locations, garbage is a principal food source. As with other species, German cockroaches are mostly active at night, when they forage for food and water. However, they may be seen during the day, particularly if a heavy population is present or if there is some other stress, such as a lack of food or water. German cockroaches pose a major health problem because of the diseases they carry, which include different forms of gastroenteritis (food poisoning, dysentery, and diarrhea), allergens, as well as other disease-producing protozoa and bacteria. The organisms causing these diseases are carried on the legs and bodies of cockroaches and are deposited on food and utensils as the cockroaches forage. Cockroach excrement and cast skins also contain several allergens to which many people exhibit allergic responses, such as skin rashes, watery eyes and sneezing, congestion of nasal passages, and asthma.