Why Do Cockroaches Have Wings?
WouterIf you have ever wondered why cockroaches have wings, you are not alone. The wings give the American cockroach a speed that rivals a cheetah. Their wings are a result of their evolution from an ancestor that was an excellent flyer. While the wings of adult cockroaches don’t have a distinctive appearance, the wings of juvenile cockroaches are recognizable.
The American cockroach, also known as the palmetto bug, is one of the few species that can fly. German cockroaches also have wings and will fly on occasion. Another cockroach species with wings is the Brown Banded Cockroach, which has both male and female wings. Oriental cockroaches have wing pads but do not fly.
Despite the fact that some species of cockroaches have wings, most household roaches do not have them. While some species of cockroaches have an ability to fly, they rarely do so. Only a few species have the necessary wing muscles to fly, and flying cockroaches are typically found in urban areas, where temperatures are warm enough. Having wings helps cockroaches jump higher and avoid getting stuck on their backs.
Although cockroaches can climb using their legs, they often launch themselves into the air when threatened. The size and shape of a roach’s wings are crucial for flying. The wings of male cockroaches can be very large and allow them to travel up to 100 feet or more.
