The oriental feeds on a wide range of decaying organic matter and has the reputation of being the filthiest of the household infesting cockroach species. The German Cockroach is the most commonly encountered cockroach in apartments, restaurants, hospitals, or other buildings in which food is stored, prepared, or served throughout the Pacific Northwest. Under ideal conditions, adults may live up to 12 months. These cockroaches are often accidentally introduced into buildings with groceries, beverage cartons, and used furniture and appliances. Adults may also migrate from nearby infested dwellings.
Most migration occurs along plumbing or utility tunnels or between apartments in structures.
German cockroaches normally inhabit the kitchen and bathroom but will also occur in other rooms, especially if infestations are heavy. Other places may include telephones, toasters, coffee makers, and other small appliances, behind pictures, wall hangings or electric clocks. Treatments usually involve an intense initial service followed with monthly service until control is achieved.