The cockroach has changed very little in general structure since they first appeared on Earth more than 250 million years ago. Cockroaches are usually flat, with a smooth, waxy tough skin. The head has mouthparts protruding forward designed for chewing.
Most species have two pairs of wings.
They prefer to be in groups and are most active at night. Names for local cockroach species include palmetto bug, waterbug or simply roach. Female cockroaches produce small egg capsules that contain from 6-33 eggs. In most species, the female hides the capsule soon after it is formed. They feed on the same material as adults, and they look like adults except for size and the absence of wings.