Bugs, bugs, everywhere! Wherever you go, it’s likely that the moment you set your foot down outside, you’ll be surrounded by at least 10 different insects.
According to one estimate, the number of insects on planet Earth right now totals around 10 quintillion.
As if that’s not impressive enough, the diversity of bugs you can find in the great state of Pennsylvania is absolutely astonishing. Between insects that can fly, weave webs, and pollinate flowers, maintaining the ecosystem of these bugs is of special importance to residents.
Pest control professionals play an important role in maintaining the ecosystems of these bugs as many pesticides used by professionals can disturb and destroy these habitats.
Fortunately, many pest control companies like The Pest Rangers have adopted eco-friendly methods to combat common pests and insects, including organic pesticides and integrated pest management (IPM).
With that said, here are twenty-five common species of bugs found in Pennsylvania and some tips to keep your home bug-free without disturbing their habitats.
1. Aphids
These tiny colorful insects are a bit of a pest for gardens since they suck the juice of plants. Some can even be toxic. Do not worry; as annoying as these insects can be, they are often prey to other insects like ladybugs and wasps.
2. Assassin Bugs
If you spot one of these insects, you best steer clear. They can be quite hostile. Assassin bugs are the violent type, and they can inflict painful bites on their unsuspecting victims.
They move quickly, stabbing their victims to death with their beaks. As vicious as they are, they are remarkably effective at controlling the insect population in a garden.
3. Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are common just about anywhere people are, and Pennsylvania is no exception. This pest can enter your home by stowing away in your luggage or even on you.
Once they are inside your home, they will multiply and use you for a blood feast, and you may be none-the-wiser. These little insects can be hard to detect and even more difficult to get rid of. Should you find one in your home, you absolutely need to consult a pest control expert.
4. Boxelder Bug
Boxelders are unique-looking insects. While not harmful to humans or a threat to plant life, they can be annoying. These insects come in massive hordes–being attracted to boxelder trees–and dye things when crushed.
5. Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
This overwintering pest is known for the awful smell it emits when being crushed. The brown marmorated stink bug doesn’t just give off a smell, but it can also damage produce by sucking out vital nutrients.
Nevertheless, these annoying insects are more of a nuisance than anything, especially if they try to spend the winter in your home.
6. Giant Water Bug
Water bugs hang out in shallow water, waiting to catch small fish, frogs, snails, and sometimes snakes for a meal. Identified with their foreleg pincers, they can often mistake a toe for prey; and they do have a strong bite. While rare in Pennsylvania, they are often mistaken for cockroaches.
7. Spotted Lanternfly
These flying insects aren’t from around here. In fact, this invasive species can be devastating to crops, plants, and trees. While they may have a charming appearance, spotted lanternflies can suck plants dry, causing major harm to the ecosystem and our livelihood.
8. Squash Bug
Like the stink bug, the squash bug gives off a horrible odor when crushed. What sets them apart is their food; squash bugs feed on the juices of plants, stems, and fruit. Often, they will leave gaping wounds that will eventually kill them.
9. Water Strider
These insects may look like spiders, but they aren’t and pose no threat to humans. Water striders can glide across the water and use the surface to lay eggs.
10. Wheel Bug
Known for their painful bite, wheel bugs feed on slow-moving insects such as caterpillars, beetles, and aphids. They are one of the largest assassin bugs, measuring up to 1.5 inches in length. Typically residing in leafy areas like forests, parks, or shrubs, wheel bugs are beneficial predators but should be handled with caution.
Their bite is not venomous but can be intensely painful and take weeks to heal. If you spot one in your garden, it’s best to admire it from a distance as they play a crucial role in controlling pest populations.
11. Larder Beetles
These tiny household pests lay their eggs in dry foods, animal products, and dead insects. Measuring about 1/4 inch in length, larder beetles have dark brown bodies with a distinctive light-colored band across their back.
They thrive in pantries, where they infest stored grains, dried meats, and pet food. Their larvae bore into wood, books, and other household materials in search of food, making them more than just a kitchen nuisance. Preventing infestations involves sealing food properly and maintaining a clean storage area to eliminate potential breeding grounds.
12. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are found almost anywhere they can find food and water. Usually, they hide away in kitchens or bathrooms, and they tend to be nocturnal creatures, making them difficult to identify. However, cockroaches can spread quickly, infesting homes quickly over time and contaminating surfaces with bacteria and disease.
13. Carpet Beetles
These beetles are tiny, about ¼ – ½ inch long, but they will eat anything from animal products to fibers and hair. They can be found around baseboards and other tight spots where they can easily grab some food.
14. Louse
An insect no parent wants to find on their kids, these pests are very small and are often found in areas with heavy populations. Louse, or lice, can be picked up by sharing combs, hats, clothes, bedding, and even toilet seats.
15. Ticks
These tiny parasites can be found near any wooded area or even your own backyard. Ticks are dangerous little creatures, as they can carry Lyme and other diseases. The only way to combat these creatures is to spray a barrier spray around your yard.
16. Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are one of the deadliest creatures in the world. These tiny flying insects lay their eggs in still water using a blood meal to fertilize them. Unfortunately, they can spread devastating diseases such as Zika and yellow fever from one bite. While these diseases are rare in Pennsylvania, be sure to watch out for mosquito bites and contact a doctor if you experience adverse reactions.
17. Horse Flies
These larger, more annoying versions of the house fly like to stick to sunny areas. While they do need off nectar, they often opt for blood meals too, and they have a rather nasty bite. Plus, they can be quite relentless.
18. Wasps
A stinging insect, wasps can be both a pest and a pest eliminator. While they can be useful for killing flies and other nuisance bugs in your garden, they can also be quite aggressive. If you get too close, wasp stings can be quite painful and even a threat if you are allergic. Therefore, it’s important to understand the difference between a bee’s nest and a wasp’s nest.
19. House Centipede
These insects may be terrifying if one should pop up, but they are excellent pest control experts. Usually found in dark, cool areas, house centipedes feed on several household pests and can actually be a great ally in the pest control battle.
20. Termites
Termites cause billions in damage each year in the United States. There are over 40 species in the United States, and these little wood eaters can quickly eat you out of house and home. Unfortunately, without the help of a pest control expert, they can be exceedingly difficult to spot and can often feast on homes for years without homeowners noticing. .
21. Ants
These segmented little colony creatures can be quite a problem if they find a way into your home. There are several different species, some of which take over enemy colonies and make their captives slaves. They can be a pain, especially if they are building their colony in your yard or near your home.
22. Gnats
These annoying flying insects seem to know just how to aim for your mouth and eyes. Actually, it’s no coincidence, as gnats are drawn to carbon dioxide. These insects breed near bodies of water and tend to search for warm, moist places such as drains, composts, and birdbaths.
23. Carpenter Bees
Don’t let these bees fool you; they are definitely not bumblebees. These solo fliers build nests into trees, frames, and other woodwork and can cause some real damage. And they don’t just do it once – carpenter bees will return over and again to nesting areas to lay their eggs again.
24. Ladybugs
If you spot these pretty little beetles in your garden, you’re in luck! Ladybugs are great at getting rid of garden pests. However, these can be a nuisance if they make their way inside your home as an overwintering pest.
25. Praying Mantis
These predators are often hard to spot, and they love making a meal out of all kinds of insects, including spiders, butterflies, beetles, and other mantises. In fact, they have been known to catch hummingbirds and mice as well. While too many can be a problem, these insects certainly can help keep your garden pest-free.
Prevention Tips for a Bug-Free Home
Maintaining a bug-free home doesn’t mean you have to use dangerous chemicals and pesticides. Rather, by using common sense prevention measures, you can keep your home bug-free while protecting the local habitats of nearby bugs.
- Seal cracks and crevices – Inspect your home for small gaps around windows, doors, and your foundation. Use caulk or weather stripping to close off entry points where bugs might enter.
- Keep your home clean – Regularly sweep, vacuum, and wipe down surfaces to remove food crumbs and spills. Store food in airtight containers and take out the trash frequently to prevent attracting pests.
- Use insect screens – Install and maintain screens on all windows and doors. Repair any holes or tears to keep flying insects like mosquitoes and flies from entering your home.
- Eliminate standing water – Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so be sure to empty birdbaths, flowerpot saucers, and outdoor containers. Fix leaky pipes and keep gutters clear to prevent water buildup.
- Reduce outdoor lighting – Bright lights attract bugs, so use yellow or sodium vapor bulbs instead of white lights. Position outdoor lighting away from doors and windows to minimize insect attraction.
- Maintain your yard – Keep grass trimmed, remove piles of leaves or debris, and trim back bushes or tree branches that touch your home. Overgrown vegetation can serve as shelter for pests.
- Store firewood properly – Keep firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and elevated off the ground. This helps prevent termites and other wood-boring pests from migrating indoors.
- Use natural or chemical deterrents – Essential oils like peppermint, citronella, and vinegar can help repel bugs naturally. For persistent infestations, consider using insecticides or professional pest control treatments.
- Regularly inspect for pests – Check your home frequently for signs of infestation, such as droppings, chew marks, or bug nests. Taking quick action can prevent minor pest problems from turning into major issues.
When it comes to insects in Pennsylvania, this is just the tip of the thorax. From sly predators to annoying pests, bugs make up a crucial part of the ecosystem. However, they don’t necessarily belong in your home. If you are struggling with a pest problem, seek out a pest control expert and keep your home safe today.
FAQs
Are all bugs in Pennsylvania harmful?
No, while some insects may bite or spread disease, many are actually beneficial for gardens and in combatting pests, such as spiders, bees, and centipedes.
How do I identify a bug I found in my house?
There are online tools and apps that can help identify insects based on pictures and descriptions, such as the Google Lens.
What should I do if I have a bug infestation?
If you suspect an infestation, contact a professional pest control service for proper removal. DIY pest control can be dangerous and only make a problem worse to deal with. A professional has the tools and knowledge necessary to combat pest infestations and keep your home pest-free.
