Bob & Janet

These are non-native cockroaches. They are popular in our Nature Education Programs as they are big and hiss loudly.

General Facts

  • Lifespan: 2 – 5 yrs
  • Insect (3 body parts, 6 legs, exoskeleton, 2 antenna)
  • Common pets
  • Make a hissing noise when disturbed, to impress a female, or as a sign of aggression towards other males
  • One of the largest species of cockroaches, but lacks wings
  • Eats most anything, we feed them fruits, veggies, dog/cat food
  • Give live birth
  • Nocturnal
  • Baby Madagascar hissing cockroaches are called ‘nymphs’ and they go through seven stages of growth before reaching adulthood
  • Have sticky feet that make them really good climbers. Their taste buds are also on their feet.