PEST GUIDE

Seeing an occasional insect does not always mean you have an infestation. However, repeated activity or multiple signs may indicate a larger issue.

Signs of a pest infestation may include:

· Seeing pests regularly

· Finding droppings or nesting materials

· Hearing scratching or movement in walls

· Discovering damage to wood, food, or belongings

· Finding nests, webs, or egg sacs

· Noticing unusual odors

· Seeing pests in multiple areas of your home

If pest activity continues or increases, a professional inspection can help determine the cause.

There are several reasons pests enter homes, including:

· Searching for food or water

· Looking for shelter from weather changes

· Finding small cracks or gaps to enter

· Following moisture sources

· Being attracted to lights or landscaping

· Following other insects that serve as a food source

In New York, seasonal changes often play a major role. For example, rodents frequently seek warmth in fall and winter, while ants and stinging insects become more active in spring and summer.

Homeowners throughout the Capital Region, Hudson Valley, Saratoga, and surrounding areas commonly encounter:

· Ants

· Carpenter ants

· Carpenter bees

· Bed bugs

· Mice

· Rats

· Spiders

· Wasps and yellow jackets

· Mosquitoes

· Ticks

· Stink bugs

· Cockroaches

· Centipedes

· Earwigs

· Wildlife such as bats, squirrels, and raccoons

The pests you encounter often depend on the season, weather conditions, and your home's surroundings.

Pest activity changes throughout the year.

Spring

· Ants

· Carpenter ants

· Carpenter bees

· Ticks

· Mosquitoes

Summer

· Wasps and yellow jackets

· Mosquitoes

· Ticks

· Ants

· Spiders

Fall

· Mice and rodents

· Stink bugs

· Spiders

· Overwintering insects

Winter

· Mice

· Rats

· Spiders

· Pests seeking shelter indoors

Weather patterns can also impact pest activity. For example, heavy rain may drive rodents and insects closer to homes in search of dry shelter.

It depends on the pest.

Some pests are primarily a nuisance, while others can pose health or property concerns.

Examples include:

· Ticks can transmit diseases.

· Rodents can contaminate areas with droppings and urine.

· Stinging insects can pose risks for individuals with allergies.

· Bed bugs can cause discomfort and stress.

· Carpenter ants can indicate moisture issues in wood.

Proper identification helps determine the level of risk and the appropriate solution.

Recurring pest problems usually mean there is an underlying issue attracting or allowing pests into your home.

Common causes include:

· Unsealed entry points

· Moisture problems

· Food sources

· Nearby nests or colonies

· Seasonal pest activity

· Conditions around the home's exterior

Effective pest management focuses on more than removing the pests you see. It also addresses why they are there and helps prevent future activity.

If you are trying to identify a pest, take a clear photo that shows:

· The entire insect

· Its size compared to an object like a coin or finger

· Where it was found

· Any surrounding signs such as damage, droppings, webs, or nests

A photo can be a helpful starting point, but a professional inspection may be needed for accurate identification and treatment recommendations.