Some roach species have wings and can glide or fly, especially in warm weather or when startled.
Which roaches fly
American, Asian, smokybrown and Australian roaches have wings. German roaches have wings but rarely fly.
When
Warm, humid weather or when startled. Males fly more.
How
Short glides and flights.
Control
Seal entrances, fix leaks and use bait.
Health
Roaches can trigger allergies and asthma.
Fun fact
Some roaches can fly up to 100 feet.
Flying species
Most of the roughly 4,600 cockroach species have wings, but only some fly well. In the US, the Asian cockroach (Blattella asahinai) flies readily and is attracted to light, while the Florida woods roach and the smoky brown cockroach fly in warm, humid weather. American cockroaches can glide and fly short distances, and German cockroaches have wings but seldom fly.
- Flying usually occurs at warm temperatures, around 85 F (29 C) or higher, and often at dusk.
- Males fly more than females in some species.
- Roaches can fly to escape threats, find food or move between buildings.
Control and health
Control uses sealing cracks and gaps, fixing leaks, storing food, removing garbage, baits and professional treatment. Roach allergens and droppings trigger asthma, especially in children in cities, as shown by NIH-funded studies. Outdoor lighting near doors attracts flying roaches, so switch to yellow bulbs and keep doors closed at night.
Flying species
Some cockroach species such as the American, Smokybrown and Asian cockroach can fly, mostly in warm weather and at night. German cockroaches have wings but rarely fly.
Control and health
Seal entry points, remove food and moisture. Flying roaches can spread bacteria and trigger asthma.
Do roaches really fly
Some cockroach species have functional wings and can fly or glide, especially the American cockroach, Smokybrown and Asian cockroach. German cockroaches have wings but rarely fly. Flying mostly occurs in warm conditions when roaches feel threatened or are drawn to light, and they tend to glide down from a height more than fly strongly.
Control
Roaches enter through gaps, drains and vents. Seal cracks, fix leaks, store food in sealed containers, take out trash and keep gutters clean. Baits with hydramethylnon or fipronil and gel baits are effective, and boric acid is used in cracks. Roaches carry allergens linked to asthma, especially in children, according to the NIH. Large infestations need a licensed pest professional.
Based on data from the National Pesticide Information Center and university entomology extensions
