Bug’s Life

Our guide to British invertebrates

German cockroach

(Blattella germanica), half an inch long

There are three indigenous cockroaches in the British Isles, but by far the most common and troublesome on these shores is the German cockroach, which actually hails from North Africa. Having arrived here centuries ago aboard cargo, it thrives on man’s detritus. However, as it moves quickly and is nocturnal, you’re more likely to smell or spot signs of its presence rather than see the little critter itself. Like other roaches, the German variation—yellow-brown with dark stripes near the head, long legs and very long antenna—can fly and survive without food and water for weeks. Simon Lester