Zoo Buddy: Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches!

MONROE, La. (KNOE) - Meet these creepy crawlies! These hissing cockroaches are from Madagascar. You can find these guys in the reptile building of the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo in Monroe.

“Unlike many cockroach species, they do not possess wings. Their exoskeleton is dark, from mahogany brown to black, and very thick, hard, and waxy,” according to Animal Diversity Web (ADW).

They’ve got six legs and are good climbers.

“They have pads and hooks on their feet that allow them to climb smooth surfaces,” posts ADW.

Zookeepers say they have horns on the back of their heads that can be used to fight other cockroaches.

While construction continues on the new Louisiana Purchase Exhibit, the Reptile Building is closed.

Until then, you can request some reptiles at educational programs or birthday parties, or you might just see one at the zoo when staff are taking them on a stroll.

Call 318-329-2400 for more information.

Due to weather delays, construction crews believe the new exhibit will be open sometime in the spring of 2026.

You can also volunteer with the zoo. Contact the Louisiana Purchase Zoological Society through their Facebook page.

The zoo is open every day of the week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can get tickets to feed the budgies, feed the tortoises, ride the boat, or ride the train at the front office.

Click here for a breakdown of their prices.