The wide-ranging climates and geography in the United States of America mean that pests can vary hugely. Some folks might be bothered by wasps; others might struggle to keep grizzlies out of their kitchen. This article will focus on the insect pests you might come across and what you can do about them.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are fantastic at hiding – if you see more than one, you’ve likely got an infestation. They love places with high humidity, eat practically anything, and can fit into the least accessible spot you can think of. They particularly pose a risk to people with asthma, but in general, they can spread many diseases to humans, particularly foodborne ones like salmonella. You can get rid of them yourself, but it takes a concerted effort – improving cleanliness, eliminating entry spots, and baiting traps.
Bed bugs
Bed bugs are on the rise – most people have either had an infestation or know someone that has. Normally the first sign that you have of an infestation are bite marks on your body – particularly after sleeping. Although most people associate a bed bug infestation with an infected mattress, they can also be found in wheelchairs, vehicles, and stuffed animals. Basically, anywhere that they will have easy access to their food source – blood. The best way to get rid of an infestation is to get the professionals in. As they are particularly hard to get rid of, consider calling in a Bed Bug Specialist rather than a general exterminator.
Ants
There are lots of different species of ant across the United States – some will be a nuisance, some will stink (odorous house ants), some might cause damage (carpenter ants), and some might bite and sting (fire ants). If you have ants in your home, it is important to work out what kind they are, as this will determine how you get rid of them. In general, try to eliminate entry points around your home, use ant powder or other deterrents and remove any food sources.
Termites
There are around 2750 species of termite, and they like warm moist climates. They eat cellulose which is a problem for any dwelling made (or partly made) of wood. Some varieties nest within the wood that they eat, meaning they are within the house structure and are incredibly difficult to remove. You should always check your house carefully for any signs of termites so that you can get an exterminator in as soon as possible – the damage they cause normally isn’t covered by home insurance. All insects follow a predictable life cycle – so be on the alert during termite swarming season when they are flying to look for a new nest site.
Wasps
Wasps can be territorial and sting and swarm to protect their nests. This obviously poses a danger to humans, whether or not they are allergic. Wasps also use found material to make their nests and cause considerable damage before they are found. Seeing wasps around your home is not normally a cause of concern, but you should be aware of where they are flying – if they tend to gravitate towards the same area day after day, then you will need to examine it carefully in case there is a wasp nest. Pay attention to undisturbed areas around the home, like roof eaves or attic rooms. As enough wasp stings can kill a person, it is important to wear the right safety equipment when removing a nest – calling in a professional is best.
