Why Do Cockroaches Fly Toward You?

Cockroaches have a curious way of avoiding being sprayed, or swatted, when they are nearby. It’s an instinctive action, but not one you should take lightly. Despite their agility, roaches are awkward in the air. When sprayed, they tend to drop to the ground. This is a defense mechanism for them, and it gives them a chance to escape. Otherwise, if they were to hang on, they would be smashed and flattened.

Cockroaches have four pairs of wings, which attach to their thorax. Their front wings are tough and protect the insect, while their back wings are thin and have veins. These wings allow cockroaches to fly short distances. When cornered, they may try to fly towards you in an effort to escape your presence.

Another reason cockroaches fly towards you is to look for food. According to a study at the University of Florida, cockroaches will approach humans if they smell food. Cockroaches will also fly towards lights in homes when they’re hungry.

Cockroaches have many species, and some of them are nocturnal. Those in tropical climates often use their wings to escape predators and find mates. Those in temperate climates have fewer predators, so they don’t have to fly. However, if they see a silhouette, they will fly towards it.

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