Learn all about disgusting, fascinating cockroaches!

Examines the body parts, behavior, and likes and dislikes of one of the oldest creatures in the world. Fun experiments are described, including how to stage cockroach fights. Now back in print, this new edition, revised and updated, will enchant readers seeking narrative science nonfiction.

Awards for the book Cockroaches

Named to the list of Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students in K-12.

Reviews for the book Cockroaches

“. . . a lively text make[s] this a choice browsing title for those interested in science, insect pests—and the revolting.” Kirkus
“. . . well-organized text describes the structure and behavior of various species of cockroaches. Includes suggestions for experimentation and observation.” Science Child

What’s it like being a cockroach?

In some ways, cockroaches have an easier life than kids. Cockroaches never have to share their toys or make their beds. (Of course, cockroaches don’t have toys or beds.) In this book, learn how to have a cockroach fight and what happens when cockroaches nibble on your food.

From the beginning of the book Cockroaches

Imagine, for a moment, that you are a time traveler. You step into your time machine and set it to travel backwards in time–350 million years ago.

Suddenly there is a whirlwind of activity. Lights on the control panel are flashing. Motors are humming. Data are spewing from the computer printer. Everything is wildly vibrating.

And then all is quiet. You open the door and step out. The air is moist and humid. You are surrounded by masses of tree ferns and evergreens. Plants are everywhere. There are no dinosaurs, and there won’t be any for several hundred million years. And of course, there are no humans. Glancing down, you recognize something that you’ve seen in your own time. What is it?

Two Cockroach Experiments

For your experiments, you will need some empty jars and a magnifying glass. Use plastic gloves or some old tweezers to touch the cockroaches. Always wash your hands with soap and water after you handle them.

You will also need a cockroach arena. To make one, get two large pieces of poster board. Cut one piece in half, longways. Staple the edges together to make a circle. Place it on top of the other piece of poster board.

Cockroach Grooming

To get the cockroach to clean or groom itself, smear a light coat of honey and water on its body, legs, and antennae. Now watch the cockroach. Write down the steps of a cockroach bath. What part of the body does the cockroach groom first?

Repeat this process with several cockroaches. Do the cockroaches groom themselves the same way? How are they different? How are they alike?

Cockroach Righting Behavior

An important animal behavior is the animal’s ability to turn itself over when it lands on its back. Gently drop a cockroach on its back in the arena. How does it right itself? What legs are involved? Are the cockroach’s actions the same each time you drop it?

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