Did you know that millions of Americans have unwanted critters in their homes? From bed bugs to mosquitoes, there is no shortage of household pests that can invade your property.
Have you ever wondered what kinds of bugs and animals can live in your house? Read on to learn about eight creatures you might encounter, and when to call an exterminator.
1. Ants
Ants are one of the smallest types of household pests, but they can still cause a lot of damage in large numbers. House ants are the most common, and these are likely the critters that you see roaming around your home.
Crumbs and food can attract ants in large numbers. If you have an ant problem, it is important to clean up food right away and keep goods in airtight containers. Take out your garbage regularly as well to prevent ants from gathering around leftovers.
There are many home remedies for ants, including ant traps and homemade solutions with borax. However, sometimes their network is too extensive and you may need to call in the professionals.
2. Bed Bugs
Are you waking up with groups of small red bites on your skin in odd places? There is a chance you may have a bed bug infestation to worry about.
Contrary to their name, bed bugs can reside in almost any crack or crevice, but are most commonly found in beds and furniture.
Bed bugs also spread very easily and can hop from house to house through furniture and clothes. If you ever buy secondhand furniture or clothes, check for bedbugs before you bring them into the house.
Bed bugs are tough to control once you have them in your house. For a bed bug infestation, it may be necessary to call an exterminator, rather than handle the situation alone.
3. Fleas
Your furry friends may be fun to own, but they can also bring in additional pests. Fleas are a common problem for dogs and cats, especially those that spend a lot of time outdoors.
Be on the lookout for fleas when the weather gets warmer. Bloodthirsty critters like fleas and ticks are most active during the spring and summer months.
Preventive flea medication is a great way to prevent your dog or cat from bringing fleas inside the house. Usually, these come in the form of a topical treatment applied every month.
4. Flies
Although the occasional housefly shouldn’t cause concern, these winged insects can be dangerous in large numbers. They can carry a multitude of diseases and harmful bacteria.
Regular house flies tend to be black or gray in color and measure around six to seven millimeters on average. Since they move quickly, they can spread contagions wherever they land.
If you notice flies hovering around your rotten fruits and vegetables, you may have fruit flies. Luckily, fruit flies are harmless but they can be annoying.
One of the easiest ways to get rid of fruit flies is to trap them with aromatic bait, like scented dish soap. Be sure to keep your home clean and throw away produce once it starts to go bad.
5. Rats
Rats can cause major damage to your home and also spread diseases. These nimble rodents make themselves comfortable in spaces such as basements, attics, insulation, or chimneys.
Some of the telltale signs of a rat infestation include:
- chewed electrical cables
- rat droppings
- chewed food packaging
- nesting materials
For serious rat infestations, it may be best to call an exterminator for pest control. Depending on your location, make sure to find a company that can take care of rodents like mice and rats.
If you live in Atlanta, GA, you can look for companies in your area with good reviews. Discuss the issue with a professional to determine the cost and the level of treatment needed.
6. Termites
Termites are tiny creatures that typically feed off of wood. Their colonies can also live in the wood, making them even more of an issue.
The key to controlling termite damage is to catch them early. Exterminating and repairing your home can cost thousands of dollars if there is a large termite colony.
Keep an eye out for damage to your home, such as pinholes and buckling wood. When termites chew through a good portion of the wood, it can cause damage visible to the naked eye. You may also hear a crackling sound within the wood.
When you call an exterminator for termites, you may have to tent your house. Depending on the extent of the damage, fixing a bug infestation with termites can take a few days.
7. Cockroaches
Have you ever turned a light on and seen bugs scurrying into the dark corners? Chances are, you have a cockroach or two in your home.
Cockroaches like to hide out in warm, moist areas such as kitchens, basements, and bathrooms. They have an extremely diverse diet, which enables them to thrive in many different conditions.
A good defense is the best offense for a bug problem like cockroaches. Clean and sanitize your property regularly. You should also store food in airtight containers and clean out potential hiding spots.
8. Mosquitoes
When temperatures rise, mosquitoes will start showing up in and around your home. These winged pests can be frustrating due to their bites and annoying whine.
Not only are mosquitoes irritating, but they also carry dangerous diseases such as malaria and West Nile Virus. Mosquito bites are red, swollen, and itchy as well.
Citronella is a wonderful mosquito deterrent. You can buy citronella candles or special devices scented with citronella to keep the mosquitoes away. Topically applied bug spray will also do the trick.
Look Out for These House Pests
If you want to get rid of house pests, look no further. With this guide, you can identify pesky critters and be pest-free in no time.
Managing your home does not have to be stressful. Visit our website to find all of the home improvement solutions you need.
