Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the bugs. Not all are dangerous, and not all are pests, but whether you’re a visitor to the Lone Star state or a permanent resident, it couldn’t hurt to be on the lookout for these pesky pests.
Here is a look at some of the most common bugs found in Texas.
Key Takeaways
- There are a few common types of insects in Texas, including scorpions, beetles, soldier bugs, and more.
- You can keep pests out of your home by taking basic sanitation measures like removing garbage regularly, getting rid of clutter, and sealing up cracks and gaps.
- In cases of extreme infestations, particularly in those where you or a member of your family are being harmed by insects, you may need to call a professional exterminator.
Common Bugs You May Find in Texas
There are so many different types of insects that it would be impossible to list them all here. However, some of the more common insects that can be found in Texas include:
- Ants
- Bees
- Beetles
- Giant water bug
- Spiders
- Flies
- Butterflies
- Crickets
- Chinch bugs
- Scorpions
- Spined soldier bug
- Mosquitoes
- Stink bugs
Each of these insects plays an important role in the ecosystem, and they can all be found in varying numbers across the state.
Ants
Ants are small, hard-bodied insects that are often black or red in color. They live in colonies and are able to travel long distances in search of food.
Some species of ants can be a nuisance to homeowners, as they can invade kitchens and pantries in search of food. Others, like fire ants, are known to sting humans. However, most ants are harmless and can actually be beneficial to the environment.
Bed Bugs
Anyone who has ever dealt with bed bugs knows that they are a serious nuisance. These small, reddish-brown insects feed on human blood, and their bites can cause intense itching and swelling.
Unfortunately, bed bugs are common pests in Texas. They are often found in hotels, apartment complexes, and other places where people gather. While bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases, they can cause a great deal of discomfort.
If you think you may have bed bugs, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for treatment. With prompt and effective treatment, you can eliminate these pesky pests from your home for good.
Flies
If you live in Texas, then you know that flies can be a real pain. They seem to be everywhere, and they’re always getting into your food. While there are many different types of flies, they all have one thing in common; they’re all looking for a meal.
And unfortunately, that meal is often your lunch. So how can you get rid of these pesky pests? There are a few things you can do.
First, make sure to keep your food covered. If there’s no food for them to eat, then they’ll eventually go away. Second, try using a fly trap. These devices rely on the fly’s natural instincts to get them to fly into a container where they’ll be trapped.
Finally, if all else fails, you can always try using insecticide. But be careful; these chemicals can be dangerous to humans as well!
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are one of the most common household pests in Texas. They are dirty, destructive, and difficult to get rid of once they take up residence in your home.
Cockroaches are mostly active at night when they come out to search for food. They will eat just about anything, including garbage, food scraps, and even the skin cells we shed on a daily basis. In addition to being a nuisance, cockroaches can also be dangerous to your health.
They can carry diseases like Salmonella and E. coli, and their droppings can trigger asthma attacks in people who are allergic. If you suspect you have a cockroach problem, it’s important to call a professional pest control company right away.
Spiders
Although they are often feared, spiders are actually quite beneficial to have around. They are voracious predators, and their diet consists mostly of insects. This makes them a valuable ally in the fight against pests such as mosquitoes, cockroaches, and flies.
However, there are some spiders that can become pests themselves. The most common spider pests in Texas are brown widows and black widows.
Brown widows are typically found in dark, sheltered areas such as sheds and garages. They are not aggressive, but their bites can be painful.
Black widows, on the other hand, are highly venomous and should be avoided at all costs. If you find a spider in your home, it is best to contact a professional pest control company for removal.
How Do I Prevent Pest Infestations in My Home?
You may not see them, but chances are there are pests crawling around your home right now. These unwanted guests can range from annoying (like flies and spiders) to outright dangerous (like rodents and roaches).
Not only are pests a nuisance, but they can also spread diseases and contaminate food. So how can you protect your home from these invaders?
Don’t Keep Food Out
One of the best ways to prevent pests from taking up residence in your home is to keep food storage areas clean and free of crumbs and spills.
Pests are attracted to food sources, so by keeping your kitchen counters and floors clean, you can deter them from setting up shop in your home. In addition, it’s important to properly seal any food that you bring into your home.
Insects can easily chew through paper or plastic packaging, so always transfer dry goods into airtight containers as soon as you get home from the store.
Dispose of Garbage Regularly
One of the best ways to keep pests out of your home is to dispose of garbage regularly. Pests are attracted to garbage because it provides them with food and shelter. By disposing of garbage regularly, you can make your home less attractive to pests and help to keep them out.
Reduce Clutter
Clutter provides many hiding places for pests and makes it difficult to spot an infestation. In addition, clutter can make it harder to clean your home, providing an ideal breeding ground for pests.
To keep your home pest-free, it is important to reduce clutter. Get rid of any items that you no longer need, and be sure to keep your home tidy.
Seal Cracks or Holes
One way to keep pests out is to seal cracks or holes in the walls or floors. This will help to prevent them from getting inside.
Regular Cleaning
One of the best ways to prevent pest infestations is to keep your home clean. Vacuum regularly, sweep floors, and wash dishes as soon as you finish using them. You should also take out the trash regularly and seal up any food in airtight containers.
When Is An Exterminator Necessary for Home Infestations?
When you have a pest problem in your home, it can be tempting to try to handle it yourself.
However, there are some situations where it is best to call in a professional. If you have tried traditional methods of pest control but the pests are still coming back, it may be time to call an exterminator.
Exterminators have access to more powerful pesticides that will eliminate the problem for good. In addition, if you are concerned about the health of yourself or your family, an exterminator can help put your mind at ease.
Finally, if the pests are attacking you or your family members, it is important to get rid of them as quickly as possible. An exterminator can help you do just that.
Conclusion
While bugs may be common in Texas, that doesn’t mean they have to be a part of your home. If you’re having issues with pests, consider giving the team at Reliant Pest a call. We offer free estimates and can help you get rid of those pesky critters for good.
Have you had any experience dealing with bugs or other pests in the past?
