Did you know that there are close to 4500 species of roaches out of which nearly 3000 of them have wings?
Don’t worry, that doesn’t mean that the next cockroach you see will fly and sit on your shoulder!
As mentioned above, not all cockroaches are flying insects; and even the ones with wings don’t necessarily fly.
Studies have shown that the ability of roaches to fly differs from one species to the other.
Also, their capability to fly may also depend on their sexual category. Fascinating right?
It doesn’t end here! Keep reading to know more captivating information about flying cockroaches.
Do Roaches have Wings?
Although it appears that most roaches have wings, but not all, of them, do; among the majority with wings, only a few species can actually fly.
Why Don’t Cockroaches Fly?
Cockroaches are dirty, filthy insects that have the ability to fly (winged roaches) but prefer to crawl.
They prefer crawling to flying because they believe they are bad at flying.
These little cryptic insects crawl immediately; they feel threatened rather than flying away; they have their first instinct in response to a threat is crawling away.
Another reason why flying cockroaches might prefer crawling to flying is that it’s safer for them.
Flying cockroaches appear big and easily noticed by aerial predators like birds; they easily prey on the big, slow, bad fliers with poor maneuver skills.
However, certain species of cockroaches are pretty good at flying; they do not fly outdoors in broad daylight but at night when it’s safer.
The Asian cockroach and the Cuban cockroach are two common species of giant flying roaches.
Even at night, these giant flying roaches with wings are still under threat from bats who feed on them easily.
How many Wings Does a Giant Cockroach Have?
Giant flying cockroaches like American roach, Canadian, Smoky-brown, and much more, possess four sets of wings, but not all the wings partake in the flight.
Only two sets of wings are used by giant cockroaches to fly; the other two sets of wings are basically used for protection.
The four set of wings are divided into 2 — thick and thin wings.
- Thick wings have the same coloration as the body; it lies on the back of the roaches when the roaches are not flying. Thick wings do not partake in the air travels; it only protects the thin set of wings.
- Thin wings are fragile, clear and, membranous. They are often hidden beneath the thick wings. Only this pair of wings is used in air travel by the giant cockroaches.
How Does a Giant Winged Cockroach Fly?
On rare occasions when a huge cockroach decides to fly, the thick pair of wings are lifted up; these give the hidden thin pair of wings to create a flight.
During the short period in which the back pair of wings is in use, the front set of wings must remain lifted.
Why are all Flying Roaches Bad Fliers?
Although most cockroaches do not fly like other insects or birds, they glide perfectly from one point to another.
The reason is they have a huge body with a thin membranous wing to carry them; the bodyweight is large compared to the uplift such a thin set of wings can do.
The reason above explains why big roaches with wings don’t fly for a long duration; they have to come to rest.
Do Baby Cockroach have Wings?
Baby cockroaches have a high resemblance to a mature giant cockroach.
Despite the high resemblance, baby cockroaches can easily be differentiated by their size; they are usually smaller than giant roaches.
Baby cockroaches are like nymphs; they are not fully grown.
For all nymphs, not one species of cockroach can fly; it is impossible for baby cockroaches as they have their wings still developing and not ready for flight.
How to Get Rid of Huge Cockroaches with Wings?
The most effective way to deal with these creepy, filth insects is by using ideal prevention methods.
These preventive methods make either your home or office irritating to them.
- Empty your bin — it’s important to do these frequently. A constant supply of food is what makes roaches interested in your home or office. So remove all standing foods and liquids or place them in a container (airtight).
- Tidy up — a dirty or unkempt place is like a home to roaches. If you want them off you, tidy up your house and office.
- Unclutter — it’s imperative that you remove clutters, they serve as a hideout to roaches.
- Check pipes and drains — you need to constantly maintain your home. Cockroaches love a dark and damp location, it excites them. Check your pipe and drains and repair if any leakage is found or will soon be.
Exterminate Flying Roaches with Licensed Pest Control
Now that’ve discussed about how to effectively deal with flying roaches at home; it is important to note that you might need more stringent action in terms of a growing roach infestation.
This is where a licensed exterminator comes into the picture! To know more about this, fill the below-mentioned form to get free multiple quotes from the professional Pest Control Companies in your vicinity so that you can decide which one to hire for your infestation problem.
Don’t worry, all your personal details are completely safe here! And by filling the form, at least, you’ll know how much you will have to pay if you take the help of your local exterminators.
Final Words
In a nutshell, we know now that cockroaches do have wings, but they don’t necessarily fly well.
However, that doesn’t mean that they can’t wreak havoc on you and your family if they happen to infiltrate your home.
Although there are many home remedies and DIY alternatives to deal with them, like bay leaves for roaches or baking soda etc, hiring a professional exterminator is the best solution to deal with their buggers for an extended period.
You can also use roach traps and baits if you want to try a couple of more alternatives before approaching pest control.
Have you ever witnessed a flying roach? What did you do? Let us know in the comments below.
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