How To Identify Pests That Are Around Your House
When you see a pest around your house, it's easy to assume that they are harmful to those in your home and your property. The truth is that many common pests are actually harmless, even if they are quite annoying. By understanding the defining characteristics of common pests, you'll be able to identify the species and know if they should be removed as soon as possible.
Cockroaches And Water Bugs
There are several kinds of water bugs that are different colors, sizes, and shapes. Unfortunately, many homeowners mistakenly identify a water bug as a cockroach. While cockroaches will spread illness throughout your home with their feces, a water bug is pretty harmless. Knowing the difference will help you know how to deal with the pest.
A defining characteristic of a water bug is how it prefers to be outside in an area that is wet, like a puddle or swimming pool. They can wander inside a house, which is why they are often mistaken for cockroaches.
The big difference between the two is the size and color. Cockroaches will be small and a brown-orange color and fairly small, which is about the size of your thumbnail. Water bugs are much bigger, a dark brown color, and have legs that are paddle-like.
Termites And Flying Ants
You probably are familiar with ants, but many homeowners do not know what flying ants look like. They actually share similarities with the looks of termites, which is how they are often confused.
If you think the flying pest in your home is potentially a termite, get a close look at the wings to tell the difference. A flying ant will have a large and small set of wings, while termites have four wings that are the same size.
Still not sure what kind of pests you have? You should have a professional come out to your home and take a look for you. There are some species of ants, such as carpenter ants, that dig into the wood in your home so that they can build a larvae nest. Carpenter ants can cause destruction that is similar to termites, so make sure to have them eliminated as soon as possible.
Even though there are pests that are relatively harmless, you won't know for sure until you identify them. The next step will be to contact a professional in your area that specializes in pest control like Commonwealth Exterminating Co. They have the knowledge to identify and get rid of all kinds of pests that can get into your home.
Share