Common Pests in Florida

Knowledge of the common pests in Florida will help in their proper identification and aid in choosing the right treatment option

Florida is the Sunshine State and enjoys beautiful weather throughout the year. However, while the favorable weather makes Florida desirable for many, the state's humid and warm tropical climate also provides ideal conditions for various pests to thrive and remain active year-round. 

Knowledge of the common pests in Florida will help in their proper identification and aid in choosing the right treatment option. Homeowners should take adequate precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their homes.

Here are a few Florida pests one would likely have to remove from a property:

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are tiny, annoying, blood-sucking insects known for leaving behind itchy, red bites. Florida has about 80 mosquito species. The Asian Tiger mosquitoes, Yellow Fever mosquitoes, Black Salt Marsh mosquitoes, Anopheles, and House mosquitoes are the common species that can trouble Floridians. Mosquitoes prefer warm and humid conditions and require standing water to lay eggs and thrive. They are notorious for transmitting diseases like the Zika virus, Dengue, West Nile virus, and Chikungunya. 

Termites

Termite is another widely prevalent pest in Florida. Termites are known as silent destroyers for their ability to cause extensive damage to home structures while staying undetected. The primary termite species in the state are subterranean, dampwood, and drywood. Termites remain active throughout the year and cause more damage than other pests. A pest control company can help homeowners take preventative measures to protect their properties from termite infestation.

Ants

Ants are pesky pests and are difficult to eliminate without the assistance of an exterminator. Common ant species found in Florida are Fire ants, Carpenter ants, Sugar ants, and Pharoah ants. Although small in size, ant colonies can contain thousands of ants. Some ants can inflict painful bites, while others can chew through wood and cause damage. 

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are more than a nuisance, and Florida has over 70 species. Cockroaches love warm, moist, dark places and have become a public health concern in the state due to their ability to spread diseases and cause allergic reactions. In addition, these are fast-moving, resilient, prolific breeders and hard to eliminate. However, a pest control company can help remove an infestation and make the home less attractive for them. 

Spiders

Spiders also love dark and moist places, and about 59 spider species are in the state. Most spider species in Florida are harmless, except for Black Widow and Brown Recluse. However, spider bites can be itchy and sometimes lead to death.

Bed bugs

Bed bugs are small, nocturnal parasitic insects that feed on human blood while they sleep. They live in mattresses, box springs, cracks, and crevices in furniture, flooring, and wood. Homeowners often require professional assistance to eliminate a bed bug infestation. 

Rodents

Rodents are a problem throughout the state and are considered hazardous for humans and properties. Rodents can carry and transmit various bacteria and diseases, reproduce quickly, and damage home structures by chewing through them. House mice, Norway rats, squirrels, packrats, and roof rats are common rodents in Florida.

Other Florida pests include flies, ticks, silverfish, wasps, and fleas. 

Keep the property pest-free

The risks and dangers posed by these pests can vary based on their species. Whether a pest is harmful or not, one should never overlook pest problems. Call a professional pest control company in Florida to address an infestation and get a reliable and lasting solution.

Kinder Safe Pest Solutions offers 17 years of experience in commercial and residential pest control serving Manatee and Sarasota counties. Call (941)254-2180 today!