Growing to around 6 cm in length, the Giant Burrowing Cockroach is a very low maintenance pet. They do not require much space or make much noise, making them suitable for people with limited space. They are also safe to handle in moderation, with no bite or sting, they can be held and lightly pet unlike other invertebrates. It is important to not over handle your Cockroach, as they have a lifespan of 3-7 years, it’s important to keep stress to a minimum.
Enclosure: A terrarium of medium size, ideally with dimensions around 25cm x 30cm, offers suitable space for cockroaches, though more room is recommended. For substrate, coco-peat is an ideal base but it can be mixed with sand or sphagnum moss, with at least 10 cm of substrate to allow for deep burrows.
Temperature: Burrowing Cockroaches prefer to live in temperatures between 18-24°C. To maintain this temperature it is recommended to place a thermometer on the side of the terrarium to ensure it doesn’t get too hot or too cold. They also need to maintain a humidity level of 60-80% to prevent them from dying out as well as aiding in the molting process.
Lighting: Specialty UV or heat lighting is not required as this can overheat the enclosure, but it is important that the natural day/night light cycle is maintained as they are a nocturnal species.
Hides and decor: Burrowing cockroaches are unable to jump or climb, so they will benefit from minimal decor. They will however use small and close to the ground hides that they can burrow underneath for further security such as leaves, sticks, bark and logs.
Diet: Their main source of food is dried leaves, ensuring that non-toxic plants are given such as eucalyptus and acacia/wattle leaves. They can also be offered chunks of fruit and vegetables to munch on including things like apple, corn, sweet potato and carrot. Feeding only needs to be done once a week, but can be offered more if your Cockroach is eating all the food that is offered. When feeding fruits and vegetables, take out any leftover pieces once it starts to deteriorate.
Water: A shallow water dish can be provided but is not a necessity. Their main source of hydration comes from their food as well as the soil. It’s important to mist their enclosure with water 2-3 times a week to maintain adequate substrate moisture, but make sure the soil is moist and not wet.
Cleaning: Cockroaches are naturally clean animals and don’t require much cleaning. Typically, wiping down the enclosure walls and replacing the substrate every few months is all they need. As well as keeping an eye on if any mold develops in the substrate as it is a moist and humid environment.
Where to buy: Our Giant Burrowing cockroaches for sale Sydney have been available in our small animal specialist store for some years now located at 684 botany rd Alexandria
