Some species of cockroaches do fly, but they're not all graceful aviators. Most adult cockroaches have two pairs of wings, but these wings aren't always well-developed for sustained flight. Cockroaches that can fly typically do so in short bursts or to glide. The flight muscles in cockroaches are less powerful than those of other flying insects like bees or butterflies, making them better suited for short flights rather than long-distance travel. Even though some flying roaches may be startling, practical control methods are available to target both flying and crawling roaches.

Can cockroaches fly?

The ability of cockroaches to fly can significantly vary between different species. Even though some cockroaches do fly, not all species do. In fact, most cockroaches do not fly at all, and most flying cockroaches usually only do so if the heat or cold conditions encourage it.

When it comes to common house cockroaches, German cockroaches have wings, but they rarely use them to fly. On the other hand, American cockroaches are more likely to fly, especially in warmer climates. Wood cockroaches and smoky brown cockroaches are champions when it comes to flying. However, if you see a flying insect around your house, it might not be a flying cockroach at all. Earwigs, crickets, and even some species of beetles can often be mistaken for cockroaches.

American Cockroach

What brings flying roaches?

Most cockroach species only resort to flying when their environment pushes them to. Since they're cold-blooded, ideal temperatures for cockroaches fall between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. When it gets much warmer than that, exceeding the mid-80s, cockroaches will look for ways to cool down, like flying to reach cooler areas or gliding down from high places to escape the heat. If a cockroach feels threatened and can't escape quickly on foot, it might also try to fly to safety.

Why do cockroaches fly towards you?

When cockroaches do fly, they typically fly in search of food or to escape perceived threats. If you think flying cockroaches are flying right toward you, they usually aren't. Most cockroach species aren't good "flyers," and what you take as them flying toward you is just them being startled and gliding uncontrollably in a specific direction. Some cockroach species are also attracted to light, and there could be light or brightness behind or around you, causing the cockroach to glide toward you.

Are flying cockroaches dangerous?

Flying cockroaches may not be directly dangerous when gliding towards you, but they can pose a threat. Even though cockroaches don't typically bite or cause direct harm, they can contaminate surfaces and spread bacteria like E. Coli and salmonella. Cockroaches, including dead ones and their body parts, can also trigger allergic reactions and asthma in some people. While the risk from flying cockroaches is not necessarily more significant than that from non-flying ones, their ability to move quickly from one place to another can contribute to the spread of contaminants.

How do you get rid of flying cockroaches?

If you have a cockroach infestation in your home, professional help is recommended. Different cockroach species respond to other types of treatment. And when you see cockroaches in your home, there may be more hiding. At Terminix, our technicians know how to find the cockroach infestation, identify the species you're dealing with, and customize an effective treatment plan to get rid of them and help prevent them from returning.

Get started with Terminix cockroach control services, or try one of our PestFree365 pest control plans to protect your home year-round from up to 39 common household pests, including cockroaches.1

1Service frequency will vary based on geography. Covered Pests defined in your Plan. Automatic payment sign up is required for PestFree365+. Voles and fire ants are only covered if they are in the home, we will not treat the lawn. Homes must be free of bed bugs at the initial service to qualify for coverage of bed bugs under the PestFree365+ Plan. Applies to single family, free-standing, owner-occupied homes only. Account must be in good standing. Other limitations may apply. See Plan for details.

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