Adults reach about 60 to 80mm in length. It's considered the world's heaviest cockroach species, with some individuals reported to weigh more than 35 grams.

How long does it live?

It's a remarkably long-lived insect, often living 10 years or more. Because of this, it's worth planning for a long-term commitment before bringing one home.

Is this a good species for beginners?

It's generally considered suited to intermediate keepers rather than complete beginners. Having some prior experience with insect care helps, and first-timers should research its needs carefully beforehand.

Can it fly or escape easily?

No, it has no wings and cannot fly. It does dig vigorously, though, so make sure enclosure lids and gaps are secure.

Is it subject to any wildlife trade regulations?

The Giant Burrowing Cockroach is not subject to CITES.

Giant Burrowing Cockroach

The Giant Burrowing Cockroach is native to Australia and holds the title of the world's heaviest cockroach species, with some adults weighing over 35 grams. Reaching 60 to 80mm in length, this wingless insect has a smooth, glossy brown body and spends much of its life underground, digging burrows rather than scurrying across open surfaces. Its slow, deliberate movements give it a calm, almost gentle presence that sets it apart from typical roach stereotypes. With a lifespan exceeding 10 years, it's a long-term companion suited to keepers who already have some experience with invertebrate care.

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About Giant Burrowing Cockroach

Discover the Giant Burrowing Cockroach, the world's heaviest roach species, with its burrowing habits, calm temperament, 60-80mm adult size, and 10+ year lifespan.

7 things to know before welcoming a Giant Burrowing Cockroach

1Recreate Its Burrowing Habitat
In the wild, Giant Burrowing Cockroaches dig tunnels and spend most of their time underground, so a deep, loose substrate is essential. Giving them enough depth to burrow lets them express this natural behavior.
2Wingless and Hard to Escape
This species has no wings and cannot fly, making it less prone to escaping than many other insects. That said, its strong legs are good at digging, so check lids and vents for gaps.
3Slow-Moving, Calm Temperament
Despite its size, it's a docile insect that rarely shows aggression. Its slow, deliberate movements make it easy to observe and care for day to day.
4Prepare for a Long Commitment
With a lifespan of 10 years or more, bringing one home means committing to long-term care. Consider your future lifestyle before deciding to keep one.
5Growth Takes Time
Adults reach around 60 to 80mm in length, but getting there takes many years. Watching its slow, steady growth is part of the appeal.
6Manage Temperature and Humidity
Because it lives underground, keeping substrate humidity and temperature stable is key to its health. Avoid extremes of dryness or excess heat and humidity.
7Best Suited to Intermediate Keepers
This species is considered suited to intermediate keepers with some prior insect care experience. First-time keepers should research its needs thoroughly before bringing one home.

Frequently asked questions about Giant Burrowing Cockroach

Q.How big does it get?: A.Adults reach about 60 to 80mm in length. It's considered the world's heaviest cockroach species, with some individuals reported to weigh more than 35 grams.
Q.How long does it live?: A.It's a remarkably long-lived insect, often living 10 years or more. Because of this, it's worth planning for a long-term commitment before bringing one home.
Q.Is this a good species for beginners?: A.It's generally considered suited to intermediate keepers rather than complete beginners. Having some prior experience with insect care helps, and first-timers should research its needs carefully beforehand.
Q.Can it fly or escape easily?: A.No, it has no wings and cannot fly. It does dig vigorously, though, so make sure enclosure lids and gaps are secure.
Q.Is it subject to any wildlife trade regulations?: A.The Giant Burrowing Cockroach is not subject to CITES.