Do roaches bite humans?

Cockroaches typically do not bite humans unless there is a high infestation. Cockroaches are most likely to bite human hands, feet, fingernails and eyelashes. Cockroaches have also been documented to eat the flesh of both living and dead human beings.

Cockroach infestations that lead to limited food sources tend to force the bugs to consume items that they would not typically eat. Ships are common vessels in which cockroaches have been known to multiply rapidly — in certain cases, to such an extent that sailors reportedly wore gloves to prevent the cockroaches from biting their fingers. Signs of a roach infestation include a musty odor, brown droppings and roach carcasses around the house. The best way to eliminate a roach infestation is with the help of a professional exterminator.