Young Cockroach nymph

5950   Hello there, I found this insect in our accommodations in Georgetown, Cayman Islands. Any help with identification is greatly appreciated – if it’s a cockroach nymph, particularly what type, so I know what precautions to take to avoid taking any home to Ontario, Canada in our luggage. That’s a cayman quarter for size, same size as a US quarter. Many many thanks.  Sarah

This is indeed a young nymph of a cockroach, but I cannot be certain as to which species. Unfortunately, short of having no luggage at all, there is no way of absolutely guaranteeing that you will not have any unwanted hitchhikers. That aside, you can minimize your risk by observing the following precautions: 1. Keep your luggage off the floor and on a luggage rack. 2. Keep your luggage closed (and zipped) at all times. 3. Keep food out of your suitcase, or at least keep it in tightly sealed containers. 4. When packing for your return, carefully shake out all items before placing them in your suitcase(s). Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.