Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches for Sale

This species of cockroach lacks the wings of some of the other giant species, so they can be handled without fear of them flying away.  They actually have a complex social structure!  They will also produce a loud hiss by forcing air through a pair of modified spiracles in the abdomen.  These spiracles are actually part of the respiratory system, so they really are hissing!  They are mainly nocturnal, but they will come out during the day as well.  These hissing cockroaches can live up to 2 to 5 years with proper care.

Madagascar Hissing Cockroach Diet

The majority of the diet consists of fruit and other soft vegetation, but not leafy vegetables such as lettuce. Use small pieces (one inch square or less) and feed moist food sparingly.  Carrots seem to be a favorite; as well as oranges, apples, bananas, tomatoes, celery, squash, grapes, sweet potato peelings, potato slices, peas and pea pods, and others. Remove uneaten food after a while to avoid spoilage.  They will drink water from a dish.  Be sure to use a sponge in the dish to prevent drowning.  The roaches will get the water out of the sponge when they want a drink.  

Madagascar Hissing Cockroach Habitat

Cockroaches are easily housed in a glass aquarium, or the plastic terrariums with vented lids that are commonly available.  They can climb smooth surfaces with ease, even glass, though, so use a snugly fitting lid with a thick layer of petroleum jelly around the upper edge of the enclosure will keep them from getting out.  If no breeding is intended to take place, you could purchase all females and house them together.  A moderate layer (2 to 3 inches) of bedding material, such as aspen bedding, will suit them along with some small cardboard tubes to hide in.  They require a humidity of 70%-90% humidity, and an under tank heating pad.  Roaches like to have as much of their body in contact with a surface as possible, so anything with narrow nooks and crannies will be appreciated, even layers of corrugated cardboard.  

Are Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches Right for Me?

As long as they are kept clean and well-fed, they pose few difficulties in captivity.  Madagascar hissing cockroaches are hardy and docile and can easily be handled.  Therefore, they make great and interesting pets for those with noise or space restricted homes.  It can be quite entertaining and rewarding to keep them as pets due to their behavior, and can make for a great educational experience for both beginners and knowledgeable pet parents alike!

At Uncle Bill’s Pet Center, we not only offer Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches for sale, we also employ a highly trained staff that can assist you in building an appropriate habitat for your new pet, and educate you on the proper care of the animal—making sure you get the most out of your pet ownership adventure!