The Brown-Banded Cockroach, scientifically known as Supella longipalpa, is a common household pest distributed globally. This insect is often referred to as the “furniture roach” because of its tendency to infest areas beyond the kitchen and bathroom. A key difference that leads to confusion involves their ability to move through the air. Understanding their physical capability is the first step toward effective management of an infestation.
The Direct Answer: Flight Capabilities
The direct answer to whether Brown-Banded Cockroaches fly depends entirely on the insect’s sex. Adult male brown-banded cockroaches possess fully developed wings that extend slightly past the tip of their abdomen, giving them the capability for short, deliberate flights. They typically use this flight ability in quick, fluttering bursts when disturbed or during the search for a mate.
Female brown-banded cockroaches have wings that are shorter and underdeveloped, covering only a portion of their broader abdomen. Females are incapable of powered flight. When startled, she will primarily rely on rapid running or may make a short, jump-like glide to escape immediate danger. This distinction in wing structure is a significant characteristic separating the sexes.
Identifying Brown-Banded Cockroaches
Identifying this species requires looking for a few distinct physical traits. They are relatively small, measuring only about one-half inch long when fully grown. The most telling feature is the presence of two light-colored, transverse bands running across their dark brown bodies and wings. These bands are more pronounced on the nymphs but remain visible on the adults.
Adult males appear more slender with their full wings, while the females have a wider, more robust body shape. Unlike the German cockroach, this species does not have the two distinct dark stripes running lengthwise behind the head.
Unique Habitat and Movement Patterns
The Brown-Banded Cockroach exhibits a unique habitat preference, favoring warm, dry locations that are often elevated. They thrive in temperatures between 77 and 91 degrees Fahrenheit, leading them to infest spaces like bedrooms, living rooms, and attics. Common hiding spots are high on walls, behind picture frames, or inside warm appliances like televisions and stereo equipment.
This preference for drier conditions earns them the nickname “furniture roach,” as they are frequently transported via infested furniture. Their primary movement is a fast, scurrying run, but dwelling in elevated spots means they can drop unexpectedly. Females often attach their egg capsules, called oothecae, to hidden surfaces in these dry, elevated areas, contributing to the spread of the infestation.
Control and Prevention Strategies
Effective control of Supella longipalpa requires targeting the dry, high-dwelling areas where they prefer to hide and breed. Inspection should focus on upper cabinets, closets, behind wall decorations, and inside electronics. Reducing clutter in these areas eliminates potential harborages.
Using insecticidal dusts like boric acid or silica aerogel in cracks and crevices of these elevated, low-moisture locations is highly effective. Gel baits containing slow-acting insecticides are also recommended, as the roaches consume the bait and carry it back to their hiding spots. Sealing small cracks and crevices prevents movement, and regular vacuuming removes food debris and egg cases.