The warm climate and urban environment in Arlington create the ideal conditions for different species of pests to thrive. From destructive rodents to disease-carrying bugs, such unwelcome guests pose severe risks to houses and public health. Although some pests are just a nuisance, others can cause serious property damage or transmit pathogens that can harm humans. By understanding the common pests in Arlington and their threats, you can develop prevention and control strategies with the help of Green Pest Services pest control experts.
Rodents
Mice and rats are troublesome creatures in Arlington. Such rodents sneak into homes through small openings and reproduce rapidly, making infestations hard to manage. The threats that these rodents pose include:
- Property damage. Rats and mice have strong teeth that continue to grow, forcing them to gnaw on insulation, wiring, wood, and plastic pipes. Such chewing behavior can result in expensive repairs and electrical fires.
- Disease transmission. Rodents can carry harmful pathogens like hantavirus, salmonella, and leptospirosis. They can contaminate surfaces and food with their saliva, urine, and droppings, increasing the risk of illnesses.
- Allergic reactions. The shed fur and dander or rats and ice can trigger allergic reactions and asthma, especially in children and people who have respiratory issues.
Termites
Termites are destructive pests that have made Arlington their home. Such silent destroyers feed on the cellulose in wood, compromising a home’s structures from the inside out. They can consume wood, wallpaper, and flooring, usually, staying unnoticed until significant damage has already happened. Because they are hard to detect early, an infestation usually leads to costly structural repairs that homeowner’s insurance may not cover. In addition, a termite colony can have millions of termites, making infestations hard to eliminate without the help of experts.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are not only an annoyance but also carriers of different serious diseases. The humid climate in Arlington offers these pests the best breeding ground, especially in areas that have standing water. Mosquitoes can carry West Nile virus, dengue fever, and Zika virus. Even one mosquito bite can result in serious health complications. Also, mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water. In just days, their populations can explode, making them difficult to eliminate.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are resilient pests that can survive in extreme conditions and reproduce quickly. When they enter a house, eliminating them becomes hard. These pests are carriers of bacteria like E. coli and salmonella, which can result in food poisoning and other illnesses. Their droppings and shed skin can release air allergens, worsening asthma symptoms, particularly in kids. A lot of cockroach species have become resistant to common insecticides, making DIY control attempts ineffective.
Spiders
Although the majority of spiders in Arlington are harmless, some species pose legitimate health risks. Particularly, brown recluse and black widow spiders can deliver venomous bites that require immediate medical attention. Spiders can establish themselves in dark, undisturbed locations such as attics, closets, and basements, making them hard to detect.
Ants
Ants invade homes to find food and moisture. Although some species are just a nuisance, others like carpenter ants can damage property. The threats that ants pose include:
- Food contamination. When ants invade food storage areas and pantries, they can contaminate food supplies with pathogens they pick up from unsanitary surfaces.
- Property damage. Carpenter ants burrow into wood, making tunnels that compromise structural integrity.
Killing visible ants does not address the colony that usually stays hidden underground or behind walls. Effective ant control often involves baiting, which works by letting worker ants take the bait back to the colony and share it with the queen and other members. This method eliminates the entire colony.
