Brown banded cockroaches prefer warm, dry locations. They do not like to be near water sources so it is not very common to see them in bathrooms. It is more common to find them hiding higher up towards the ceiling rather than the floor. Elevated places like cabinets and cupboards are frequent hiding places for brown banded cockroaches. They can also live in places you may not look as well. This includes behind picture frames, in clothing, and within drapery.

Given their preference for warmth, brown banded cockroaches will often populate in areas where there is a heat source. Computers, televisions, stoves, and near other common household appliances are well suited for brown banded cockroaches. Given the wide variety of places they can live in your home, brown banded cockroaches may be scattered throughout your home rather than living in one particular spot.

Brown banded cockroaches will eat almost anything. They will eat human foods and non-food items. Brown banded cockroaches will occasionally eat glues and pastes as well as starches. As a result, they will often nibble on book bindings, wallpaper, and other paper products. Another non-food item brown banded cockroaches eat from time to time is nylon stockings. They are typically attracted to these when in search of body oils and skin cells.

The brown banded cockroach has three developmental stages: egg, nymph, and adult. Female cockroaches lay eggs in capsules that contain around 13 eggs. She attaches these capsules to walls, ceilings, and other well-hidden areas. During her lifetime, a female cockroach will lay around 14 egg capsules and these will hatch quickly or slowly depending on the temperature. A female adult has a lifespan of 13 to 45 weeks and will produce around 600 descendants per year.

Brown banded cockroaches avoid light and are usually only seen at night.

Brown banded cockroaches can cause many health problems if you have an infestation. They are known to carry over 30 different types of bacteria and can spread this harmful bacteria which can cause gastroenteritis, or stomach flu. The skin casing that is shed when a brown banded cockroach molts can trigger allergies and asthma in certain individuals. While scavenging for food, brown banded cockroaches can transfer bacteria and other contaminants to food, cooking utensils, and cooking surfaces. Those that prepare food using contaminated items or on a contaminated surface may contract food poisoning.

In order to prevent a brown banded cockroach infestation you should:

1. Dispose of trash regularly.

2. Inspect highly elevated areas where brown banded cockroaches like to hide such as above cabinets and around wall moldings.

3. Keep food in well-sealed containers.

4. Keep your house clean and wipe down surfaces of any food residue and crumbs.

5. Make sure all cracks and crevices are well sealed.