Why Can Cockroaches Fly?
Cockroaches with wings are not as dangerous as cockroaches that cannot fly. They can use their wings to glide over flat surfaces and escape from predators. However, they cannot fly very far. If you encounter a flying cockroach, be sure to avoid it.
The size of cockroach wings and their large body mass make flying difficult for them. This means they aren’t suited for long distance flight, and instead prefer to run instead of fly. Their wings don’t allow them to reach high altitudes, and they can’t fly very far.
Cockroaches’ wings are made of two layers: an outer layer that acts as a protective covering and is a similar color to their body. The second layer of wings is thinner and membranous and helps them glide. This double layer of wings helps them balance while flying, and they can re-adjust their center of gravity to avoid crashing into obstacles.
Several species of cockroaches are able to fly, though most of the household roaches don’t have wings. They only fly when they are mature and have ideal conditions for flight. These cockroaches are usually seen flying only in urban areas during warm summer months.
While some species of cockroaches have wings, they don’t use them very often. Some species, such as the German cockroach, can only glide. They use their wings only for flight when threatened and when temperatures reach 85 degrees F. In residential areas, you’ll find German cockroaches. They’re tan or light brown with a pair of dark parallel stripes on their backs.