Which Types of Pests Could Be Invading Your Home?

This stat isn’t for the squeamish: There are probably over 500 different types of pests living in your home right now.

There are creepy-crawlies like ants, termites, and spiders, as well as larger critters like mice, rats, or squirrels. In warmer locales like Florida, residents even have to check for exotic pests like lizards and iguanas.

What types of pests do you need to worry about in your area? Before you Google, “Do I have pests in my home?”, read through his article to get more familiar with the signs of pests.

Insects & Arthropods

Bugs are probably the first category that comes to your mind when you envision different types of pests. The most common species include:

Ants
Flies
Cockroaches
Spiders
Bed bugs
Termites
Beetles

Unlike larger creatures which may make noise or leave visible droppings, these tiny pests are silent and often invisible. If you pay close attention, though, you may find a few clues that can help you out.

Roaches, for example, leave tiny smear marks and emit a musky, garbage-like odor. Peeling paint, tiny holes in your drywall, or buckling floorboards could indicate a termite invasion. Tiny dark spots on your walls, bedding, or mattress are a sure sign of bedbugs.

Small Mammals

Mice, rats, squirrels, opossums, and even raccoons may take up residence behind the walls or floors of your home. You may hear them scurrying around, but there are less obvious ways to detect them too.

Mice, for example, leave greasy marks on walls and emit a pungent, ammonia-like smell. You might also find droppings, gnaw marks, or claw marks, or you may notice your pets acting strangely.

Opossums, meanwhile, are notoriously drawn to cat food and may burrow beneath your porch or patio. Squirrels may create water damage in your walls or ceilings and leave behind a foul, decaying scent.

Reptiles & Exotic Species

In a hot tropical state like Florida, keeping iguanas off your yard may seem next to impossible. This invasive species, like the Cuban curly-tailed lizard, has taken over much of the natural ecology.

Elsewhere in the US, you may have run-ins with other types of reptiles. You may be startled by a lizard, but keep in mind that they’re generally harmless and not poisonous. Lizards are attracted to water, fruit, and insects, so you may need to address some leaks or bug problems if you suspect lizards are in your home.

Shed skin, slither marks, droppings, and strange smells are all indicative of a snake nesting in your home. Again, many species are harmless, but most people aren’t comfortable with the idea of sharing space with a snake.

If you suspect you have reptiles, rodents, or other critters on your property, call an exterminator for a professional evaluation.