Red Runner Cockroach Care Instructions

Red Runners are one of the easiest feeder roaches to keep. They breed quickly, tolerate a wide range of conditions, and are commonly used as a staple feeder insect for reptiles, amphibians, spiders, scorpions, even tropical fish (ours love them).

Basic setup

Enclosure

  • Use a smooth-sided plastic tote or glass tank with a secure ventilated lid.
  • They climb rough surfaces but usually can’t climb clean glass or slick plastic well.
  • Add ventilation holes with fine mesh to prevent escapes.
  • Egg crates stacked vertically give them hiding space and increase usable surface area.

Temperature

  • Ideal breeding range: 85–95°F (29–35°C).
  • They survive at room temperature, but reproduction slows a lot below ~75°F.
  • Use a heat mat on the side or back rather than underneath to avoid overheating the colony.

Humidity

  • Keep them mostly dry.
  • Too much moisture encourages mold and mites.
  • Provide a small humid area only if needed for molting nymphs.

A common method:

  • Keep one corner lightly moist with water crystals or damp paper towel.
  • Leave the rest dry and well ventilated.

Food

They’re omnivores and not picky.

Good staple foods:

  • High-quality dry roach chow, chick feed, or ground dog/cat food
  • Oats, bran, fish flakes

Fresh foods:

  • Carrots
  • Apples
  • Leafy greens
  • Sweet potato

Remove uneaten fresh food before it molds.

Water

Avoid open water dishes because nymphs drown easily.

Safer options:

  • Water crystals
  • Moist vegetables
  • Damp sponge in a shallow lid

Cleaning

  • Spot-clean every 1–2 weeks.
  • Full cleanings are rarely needed unless there’s odor, mold, or mite buildup.
  • Frass (roach waste) can actually help stabilize the colony, so don’t over-clean.

Breeding tips

For fast reproduction:

  • Keep temperatures near 90°F.
  • Provide lots of food consistently.
  • Avoid overcrowding by expanding bins as the colony grows.

Escape prevention

These roaches are fast.

Helpful precautions:

  • Apply a thin band of petroleum jelly near the upper inside rim.
  • Keep the lid secure.
  • Avoid overfilling egg crates near the top.

Common problems

Die-offs

Usually caused by:

  • Excess humidity
  • Poor ventilation
  • Extreme cold
  • Pesticide contamination from produce

Slow breeding

Usually due to:

  • Temperatures too low
  • Insufficient protein
  • Overcrowding

Mites or mold

  • Reduce moisture
  • Improve airflow
  • Remove old food faster