Below are samples of the more common pests encountered in households. Click each image to learn more.
Carpenter Ant
Does not eat wood, but bites pieces and removes the wood to make nests. Colonies can be very large. Look for piles of saw dust near nest entrances.
- They do not sting, but have a strong bite
- Can remove enough wood to weaken a structure
Bedbug
A bloodsucking bug that is a parasite of birds and mammals
- Often difficult to find because they hide well
- Similar to an apple seed in size and appearance
- Do not jump.
- Spend most of their time hiding and are usually active at night
German Cockroach
Small light-brown cockroach brought to United States from Europe
- Mostly active at night
- Not very tolerant to cold
- Have few natural predators inside a human habitat
- Smaller than many other species so it can more easily hide and fit into very small cracks
Fruit Fly
Fruit flies are small pests that are commonly found in homes, restaurants and other facilities where food is processed. They are found on moist, decaying matter that has been stationary for several days.
- Fruit flies feed on decaying matter, especially fruits and vegetables.
- Has a very short lifespan
Indian Meal Moth
These moths like to feed on dried fruits, grains, seeds, nuts, chocolate, candies, bird seed, dog food, powdered milk, dried red peppers and candy.
- Attracted to the light, these bugs are found worldwide in areas where food is stored, such as grocery stores.
- Indian Meal Moths infest foods and can contaminate food products.
Clothes Moth
The caterpillars of this moth are considered a serious pest, as they can derive nourishment from clothing, in particular wool, but many other natural fibers
- This moth prefers moist conditions
- Clothes Moths seem to prefer dim or dark areas
Wasp
A social winged insect that has a narrow waist and a sting. It constructs a paper nest from wood pulp and raises the larvae on a diet of insect
- Nest in the ground or in cavernous areas such as eaves, attics, etc.
- They feed on sweets and proteins and commonly invade outdoor activities.
Mouse
The house mouse is the most common rodent pest in most parts of the world. It can breed rapidly and adapt quickly to changing conditions.
- Micro droplets of mouse urine can cause allergies in children.
- Mice can also bring fleas, mites, ticks and lice into your home.
Rat
Rats can be found in the upper parts of buildings, and can also be found under, in and around structures.
- They only need a space of one-half inch to get into buildings.
- Have very poor vision and are color blind.
- Have extremely strong senses of hearing, smell, touch and taste.
- Support many ectoparasites and urinate on food.