Pests are a nuisance no matter where you live. But in the United States, some pests are more common than others. If you’re a homeowner or are part of a household, it’s important to be aware of the most common pests so you can be on the lookout for them.
Here’s a list of the most common pests in the U.S., along with some tips on how to prevent them.
Mice
Mice can become a pest in any home or building. They may initially enter the premises looking for food, warmth, and shelter, but if left unchecked can quickly take over. Mice are social animals and quickly reproduce in an area with limited competition for food and resources.
Furthermore, they may damage walls or furniture with their sharp teeth, as well as spread diseases through their droppings or via contaminated food sources. Controlling mice populations in your home is essential to avoid these potential problems. Start by sealing any cracks around windows and doors, as well as installing pest guards or traps where necessary to capture existing mice.
Regular cleaning of floors and surfaces alongside proper disposal of food waste will also help reduce any attractants for pest species. Lastly, consider natural pest control options such as cats or specific baits that aim to humanely eradicate mice without affecting surrounding wildlife species. Taking these simple steps can help prevent a mouse infestation before it even becomes a problem.
Cockroaches
When you think of pests, the first thing that may come to mind is a cockroach. Unfortunately, these creepy crawlies are often unwelcome visitors to homeowners’ houses. Notoriously hard to get rid of, cockroaches can survive for long periods without food or water and have even been known to live through water damage or flooding. They favor warm and humid environments, which means they can be found in kitchens, bathrooms, and other damp spaces.
In addition to being incredibly resilient, cockroaches are also prolific reproducers; just one female can lay up to fifty eggs at once! If you’re lucky enough not to have an infestation yet, it’s important to take steps preemptively by sealing off entry points like cracks under sinks and around windowsills.
Regularly vacuuming their hiding spots and eliminating water sources will also help keep these pesky critters away from your home. Hopefully, this information will help you stay one step ahead of the roaches! Good luck!
Termites
Termites can be a major problem for homeowners, as these small wood-eating insects have the power to cause extensive property damage. Some species of termite feed solely on wood and wood rot, while others may also consume paper, plastic, fabric, and other materials found around the home.
Lingering dampness or wood in direct contact with soil is often attractive to termites who might use it as an easy source of food. Termite colonies typically consist of thousands of workers living together in complex nests just beneath the ground’s surface. As the population grows, more termites are sent out in search of new wood sources—which often end up being your home and its contents!
To prevent a termite infestation before it starts (and avert costly repairs), homeowners should take basic preventive measures like limiting wood contact with soil and getting a yearly inspection from a pest control professional. A little extra attention now can save you from dealing with a lot more work later on!
Bedbugs
Bedbugs can be a real nightmare – they’re tiny, sneaky pests that hide in mattresses and furniture during the day and come out to feed while you sleep. Unfortunately, they don’t just bite, they also spread germs that can cause serious health issues in humans. Plus, getting rid of them isn’t always simple: they’re masters of disguise and can easily hide undetected in otherwise clean surroundings.
If you suspect a bedbug infestation, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and get rid of them quickly. Start by vacuuming any areas where the bug has been spotted, and washing all linens in hot soapy water or using extreme heat for fabric items like pillows and blankets. You may also need to purchase specialized insecticides from your local hardware store; if the problem persists it might be best to enlist the help of an exterminator.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are a fact of life in many parts of the world. Unfortunately, these pesky insects can spread diseases and ruin outdoor activities. But where do they come from and how can we get rid of them? In short, mosquitoes thrive in wet environments with mold and mold spores. They need mold and mold growth to survive and reproduce, so they seek out damp places with high humidity levels.
Not only that, but their eggs require standing water if they’re going to hatch. This means mosquitoes will lay eggs near pools, ponds, flooded areas – anything that provides enough moisture for mold growth. To prevent infestations, people should limit sources of mold and mold spores by reducing excess moisture, such as leaking pipes or overwatered landscapes.
Closing Thoughts
As you can see, there are a variety of pests that can invade your home or office if you’re not careful. It’s important to take steps to prevent them before it’s too late. These tips should help get you started. Be sure to keep an eye out for any signs of an infestation and act quickly if you suspect one.
Author Bio
David Clark
David Clark is the CEO of Basement Guides with several years of experience in basement-related problems and home safety. He has written and published many resources and guides related to senior home safety, grants, and home modifications. David is currently working to spread the word about senior home safety and health through resourceful guides and articles.