Common Pests

Of the 700 ant species found in the US, 25 species cause most infestations. Depending on the species, they can chew through wood, strip insulation from electrical wires, destroy plants, and much more. 

Wasps can nest inside or close to buildings and dwellings. Late summer is the most common time to be stung when worker wasps are searching for sugary foods.

Honey Bees can only sting once. If the stinger is not removed immediately, it can become very painful. Reactions can be more severe in individuals who are allergic. Because of the very large colony sizes, they should only be removed by a professional. 

This type of beetle is more active at night. They like to fly and are drawn to light. They are similar to a termite in relation to wood destruction. They love hardwoods and can destroy antiques and other hardwood materials.

These moths can contaminate and infest stored food. The most likely places to find them are anywhere food is stored, like grocery stores or pantries.  They like candy, seeds, nuts, grains, dried fruit, dog food, dried red peppers, and powdered milk.

Yellow Jackets are dangerous to people. They can sting multiple times. They build nests in the ground and also in attics, eaves, and other cavernous areas. They build carton nests and are most active in the late summer and early autumn. They are dangerous for allergic individuals.

These moths can destroy stored items and feed on natural fibers. They can feed on hidden fibers like upholstered furniture, stored clothing, carpets, and wool. 

Bats are very dangerous to humans. The fungi that grow on their droppings can cause lung disease. Also, a small percentage of bats carry rabies. Your most likely to find them in protected parks that have caves or in remote or secluded areas of buildings that are dark.

Bed bugs like to live in small cracks and crevices near humans. They are nocturnal and hard to find. They hide in everything from baseboards and switchplates to bedding and furniture. They like to feed on humans but can feed on any warm-blooded animals. And although they leave red itchy welts, they don’t spread disease.

Cockroaches have been known to carry E. coli and Salmonella along with at least 33 different kinds of bacterias and 6 types of parasites. They are commonly found in restaurants and grocery stores.  The German cockroach is the most commonly encountered. 

Although carpet beetles feed on dead insects, they can eat natural fibers and can destroy clothing, carpet, and upholstery.  They can be found in carpets, cloth wall hangings, and attics.

Fleas can carry some very deadly diseases, including the bubonic plague, many types of bacteria and tapeworms, that can cause anemia in pets. They can be found on household pets and wild animals alike. They can be found in shoes and blankets where they are transported from place to place.

Fruit flies live on decaying matter like fruits and vegetables and are proven carriers of bacteria. They can be dangerous in health facilities and are commonly found in restaurants and homes.

Hornets can be very dangerous. Bald-faced hornets are very aggressive and will sting for any reason, unlike other stinging insects that sting when threatened. They can sting over and over and live in colonies of 100 – 400 members at their peak.

Mice can contaminate food and spread diseases such as salmonella through their feces. Their dried feces can create airborne dust that can be inhaled, worsening allergies and causing symptoms. They can also bring fleas, ticks, mites, and lice into your home or workplace.

Rats carry diseases and disease-carrying insects such as fleas that can carry diseases of there own such as Typhus. And although rare, they can carry bubonic plague. Through their urine, they can spread infection and also spread disease through biting. They can aslo spread salmonellosis in their droppings.  They live in colonies and can nest in, under and around any structures.

Silverfish are silvery and metallic in their appearance. They like moist humid areas like bathrooms, basements, and attics.  They can destroy clothing, books, wallpaper, and upholstery.

Termites date back to the time of the dinosaurs. Each year, they cause billions of dollars in property damage. They can chew through walls, floors and support beams. These costs usually aren’t covered by the owner’s insurance policies. Being vigilant is the only way to stop or prevent them from causing damage.