Earwigs:

Earwigs are brown to black in color, about 1/4″-11/2″ in length and are easily  identified by their forceps. ( They are given the nickname “pincher bugs” by many people after their forceps) These insects are attracted to high moisture  areas where there is mulch or decaying matter. They prefer to feed on insects that are dead or alive, but will survive off of decaying organic matter, moss, fungi, or even house plants. They are typically seasonal pests. They are most commonly seen around spring and fall. They can cling onto humans using their forceps. This feels like a pinch. They aren’t harmful to  humans, but can be annoying. The myth about earwigs is that they can  enter your ears while sleeping and can’t exit, that they feed on brains. This is a myth.

Prevention Tips: To prevent Earwigs it is very important to avoid overwatering  as it will cause moss, fungi, and constant moisture; these are conducive  conditions for earwigs. Earwigs are usually present in flower beds with mulch.  It’s important to have a regular pest control program to treat these areas to control them.

Crickets:

Crickets look similar to grasshoppers. They have long hind legs that allow them to jump, long flattened bodies, and long antennae. It’s usually only the males that you hear chirping. You’ll notice that you mostly hear them at night. This is because they are nocturnal. Crickets feed on organic material and decaying plant matter. They also may look for other injured crickets to feed on if food isn’t available.

Prevention Tips:

• Keep grass and plants trimmed.
• Ensure that your garbage can is sealed shut at all times.
• Apply caulking to all areas where they can enter your home.
• Make sure that all doors have weather-stripping.
• Use LED lights when possible on the exterior. Bright lights attract crickets.

Carpet Beetles:

Carpet beetles are small insects typically measuring about 1/8″ to 3/16″ in length and are known for their diverse colors, including black, brown, and mottled patterns. These pests are attracted to a variety of organic materials found in homes, including carpets, clothing, upholstery, and stored food products. They are voracious feeders, consuming natural fibers such as wool, silk, feathers, and even pet hair. While adult carpet beetles primarily feed outdoors on pollen and nectar, their larvae, often referred to as woolly bears, are the most destructive stage, causing damage to household items.

Prevention Tips: To prevent carpet beetle infestations, it’s essential to maintain cleanliness and minimize clutter in the home. Regular vacuuming and dusting can help eliminate carpet beetle eggs, larvae, and adults. Store clothing, linens, and other susceptible items in sealed containers to prevent infestation. Additionally, inspect and clean stored food products regularly, as carpet beetles can infest pantry items. If a carpet beetle infestation is suspected, promptly address it with professional pest control measures to prevent further damage to belongings.

Gophers:

Gophers are burrowing rodents known for their stout bodies, short legs, and large front teeth used for digging. They typically range in size from 6 to 10 inches in length and have fur that varies in color from brown to gray. These pests are primarily active underground, where they create extensive tunnel systems for foraging and nesting. Gophers feed on a variety of plant roots, bulbs, and tubers, making them particularly destructive to lawns, gardens, and agricultural crops.

Prevention Tips: To prevent gopher damage, it’s important to implement effective exclusion and control measures. Install underground barriers made of wire mesh or hardware cloth around vulnerable areas such as gardens and flower beds to deter gophers from burrowing. Additionally, regularly monitor for signs of gopher activity such as fresh mounds of soil or chewed vegetation, and promptly address any infestations with trapping or baiting methods. Pest control professionals are best suited to provide assistance in managing gopher populations and protecting valuable landscaping and agricultural assets.

Moths:

Moths are nocturnal insects closely related to butterflies. They come in a wide range of sizes, colors, and patterns, with some species featuring intricate wing designs. Moths are attracted to light sources and are commonly found in and around homes, particularly in areas with stored clothing, pantry items, or pet food. While adult moths primarily feed on nectar, their larvae, known as caterpillars, are notorious for causing damage to textiles, stored grains, and other organic materials.

Prevention Tips: To prevent moth infestations, it’s important to practice good sanitation and storage practices. Regularly clean and vacuum closets, shelves, and other storage areas to remove moth eggs and larvae. Store clothing, linens, and woolens in airtight containers or garment bags to protect them from moth damage. Use pheromone traps and mothballs or cedar blocks to deter adult moths from laying eggs in susceptible areas. If a moth infestation is detected, promptly remove and dispose of infested items, and consider contacting a professional pest control service for comprehensive treatment and prevention measures.

Silverfish:

Silverfish are small, silver-colored insects that measure about 1/2″-3/4″ in length. They are easily recognizable by their teardrop-shaped bodies and three long bristle-like appendages on their rear. These insects are often found in damp, dark areas such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. They are attracted to starchy materials like paper, glue, and textiles, as well as food crumbs. Silverfish are known for their ability to damage books, wallpaper, and clothing. They are most active at night and can move quickly when disturbed. While they are not harmful to humans, their presence can be a nuisance and indicative of moisture problems in the home.

Prevention Tips: To prevent silverfish infestations, it’s important to reduce moisture levels in your home by using dehumidifiers and fixing any leaks or water damage. Store food in airtight containers and keep living areas clean and clutter-free. Seal cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and pipes to prevent entry. Regular vacuuming and dusting can also help eliminate silverfish and their food sources.

Wasps:

Wasps are flying insects that are closely related to bees and ants. They come in various sizes and colors, with common species ranging from 1/2″ to 1″ in length and featuring yellow and black markings. Unlike bees, wasps have slender bodies with a defined waist and elongated wings that fold lengthwise when at rest. They are known for their painful sting, which can be dangerous for individuals allergic to their venom.

These insects are social creatures, living in colonies with a queen, workers, and males. They construct nests typically made of paper-like material derived from wood fibers mixed with saliva. Nests can be found in various locations such as eaves, attics, trees, and underground burrows. While some species are beneficial as they prey on other insects, others can become aggressive when threatened, especially in defense of their nests.

Wasps are most active during the warmer months, with peak activity in late summer and early fall. They are attracted to sweet foods, meats, and sugary drinks, making outdoor gatherings and picnics particularly vulnerable to their presence.

Prevention Tips: To deter wasps from nesting near your home, regularly inspect and seal potential entry points such as gaps in siding, vents, and windows. Keep outdoor garbage cans tightly sealed and avoid leaving food and sugary drinks uncovered. If a nest is discovered, it’s best to contact a professional for safe removal, as attempting to remove it yourself can provoke aggressive behavior and result in stings.