If ranking pests were an option, biting would probably be the most significant annoyance of all. Unfortunately, some types of biting pests deliver venom with every bite. If you have a pest infestation in your home, it is wise to know which one pose a biting risk.
Mosquitos are small insects that may be either black, grey, green, or silver in color. They deliver small bites that turn into itchy red bumps on your skin. In the U.S mosquitoes spread diseases such as dengue fever, West Nile fever, yellow fever, and St. Louis Encephalitis. Mosquitos breed near areas with open and stagnant waters such as birdbaths, pools, swamps, marshes, flower pots and baby pools. The best way to eliminate them is to live far from stagnant water or to drain it.
Ticks are biting pests that feed on their host’s blood. There are different types of ticks, but most appear slightly rounded with a silver color. If your pets have ticks, you will find them latched to the skin right under the fur. Since most ticks stay in wooded areas and highly vegetated places, it is wise to check your pets after a walk outside. You should also check yourself since ticks bite people too. If you also notice a bulls-eye rash, which indicates Lyme disease, then you may have a tick problem.
There are different species spiders, some harmless and others dangerous. The common house spider, for instance, measuring around 6mm, is yellow-brown in appearance. This type of spider creates a sheet-like web and commonly found along walls and sheds. The Brown Recluse Spider is also common in many North American homes. Though this spider bites, it is not fatal, and rarely bites unless necessary. A bite from this spider creates a blue or purple wound that heals by itself. The spiders are shy and mostly conceal themselves in dark corners of your house.
Contrary to popular belief, silverfish do not bite people. If they do, it will probably be in your sleep, but not to feed on you. Instead, they chew through their sources of food. If you find small irregular holes in your books and discolored papers, you most likely have a silverfish infestation. They can chew through starchy substances such as books, clothes, and wallpaper.
Just like silverfish, earwigs are also misunderstood. They can pinch the skin with their pincers, but don’t bite. If you’re pinched, check if your skin is broken and wash the area with clean water and soap. Most earwigs live in soil, decaying matter and drains. The best way to avoid getting pinched is avoiding direct contact.
Bites from these common pests can be painful, unpleasant and may also result in diseases. If you suspect you have pests in your home, it is wise to seek professional pest management near you. For assistance, contact SafeHaven Pest Control today!