Do Large American Cockroaches Fly?

Fully mature individuals generally grow to lengths of between 1 and 1.5 inches. They usually are a reddish-brown color. Their pronotal shields, which are situated in the backs of their heads, have subtle borders that are either yellow or pale brown. Male and female American cockroaches alike are equipped with wings that encompass the full portions of their undersides. Though the common name of the species is misleading, American cockroaches did not originate in the United States or anywhere else in the Americas. They are believed to have come from Africa, although they are presently found internationally.

The youngsters of the species -- or "nymphs" -- look a lot like the adults, although the adults are much bigger. Immature specimens also are devoid of wings, and as a result cannot fly. Nymphs generally start out brownish-gray in coloring, only to turn reddish-brown over time.

Although American cockroaches can fly, it isn't their strong suit, and they are more comfortable with running. When they are frightened or bothered by something, they usual opt to run rather than fly away. When they do fly, it usually is to travel directly from one specific spot to another, rather than the sustained flying typical among many other species of flying insects. American cockroaches live all over the country, but flying is more uncommon in the United States' northern portions. Flying occurs normally at night, but in warmer temperatures.

American cockroaches aren't the only flying roaches. Brownbanded cockroaches (Supella longipalpa), for instance, are capable of flying -- but only the males. Pennsylvania wood cockroaches (Parcoblatta pennsylvanica) also can fly, but again, only the males, who are adept at flying. Oriental cockroaches (Blatta orientalis) are an example of cockroaches incapable of flight, although male Oriental cockroaches do possess small wings and females have tiny stumps of wings.