The historic Lackawanna County is filled with rolling farms that dot the Appalachian Mountains and picturesque towns found throughout the valleys.
Despite its rich history, many people are surprised to learn that Scranton and much of the surrounding area were not built and developed until the latter half of the 19th century.
While everyone is familiar with Scranton and its setting in “The Office,” Lackawanna County is full of several charming and historic towns, from Old Forge–the pizza capital of the world–to Archbald, Clarks Summit (home of the Ice Festival), Dunmore, and more.
Many residents are fond of the Heritage Trail, which runs straight through Scranton all the way to the Lehigh Valley.
Enjoying a mild subtropical climate with bitter winters and humid summers, Lackawanna County sees its fair share of seasonal pests, from water-loving mosquitoes to rodents that seek shelter inside homes during the winter.
Depending on whether you live close to the city or out in the country, you’re bound to encounter one of these common pests inside Lackawanna County.
Top 7 Pests Found in Lackawanna County
1. Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are one of the deadliest pests you can encounter, and unfortunately, you can find them just about anywhere. They can even be found at Dunmore Reservoir when taking a swim or in your own backyard.
Unfortunately, mosquitoes are incredibly common in Lackawanna County and carry several dangerous diseases, including Zika, West Nile Virus, and Yellow Fever.
The best way to prevent mosquitoes from breeding on your property is to eliminate any stagnant pools of water. Clear out birdbaths, lawn equipment, clogged gutters, and any other areas that might accumulate water.
Other prevention methods include mosquito yard sprays and fans–the former of which should be applied by a professional.
2. Rodents
Rats and mice can be a huge problem, regardless of where you live in Lackawanna County. Though mice and rats tend to infest areas with a higher population, field and deer mice can commonly be found in rural homes as well.
Rodents can carry devastating diseases like Salmonella and other deadly parasites. Mice and rats tend to form larger groups in areas where food and water are readily available. They can also easily enter buildings, which can make it challenging to keep them out.
To get rid of mice and rats, the best course of action is to cut off their food source. If they don’t have a pantry or watering hole, they will have to move on elsewhere.
Additionally, perform regular maintenance on your home; seal any possible cracks or openings to prevent pests from entering. Of course, depending on the size of your infestation, it may be best to refer to a professional.
3. Bed Bugs
Beg bugs can be a nightmare if they find their way inside your Lackawanna County home. These little hitchhikers can be found almost anywhere, even in the swankiest hotel.
Bed bugs often get into your home or business simply by hitching a ride on you or someone else. They can also make their way in through luggage, furniture, or other items you bring inside.
The tricky thing about these pests is that they can be hard to spot if you don’t know what to look for. They can hide in walls, furniture, or electrical fixtures, and emerge only at night. They also tend to stick around their hosts.
The Pest Rangers offer K9 bed bug inspection services that are significantly more effective than traditional tactics.
To avoid bringing bed bugs inside, be mindful of your travel habits. Check your clothes, luggage, hotel room, and any other belongings you may have brought with you. Wash your clothes in hot water and throw them in the hot dryer before bringing them back inside.
If you find yourself with a serious infestation, contact a pest control expert immediately.
4. Stinging Insects
Wasps, yellow jackets, hornets, and other stinging insects can easily make any backyard unlivable. Things can get even worse if you accidentally run over a nest hidden in your yard with a lawnmower.
While these insects tend to keep to themselves, they can become pests when they build their nests too close to your home. The situation can be even worse if you happen to be allergic to their stings.
To keep stinging insects away from your home, you can take a few precautions. Plant gardens away from your home; stinging insects can be drawn to flowers and fruits, or to the bugs that may inhabit your garden.
Keep up on your yard and outdoor maintenance to deter these bugs from establishing nests. Contact a professional to remove any nests and to apply a barrier spray that will eliminate them at once.
5. Termites
Though they may not be deadly, termites can cause a lot of damage to your home. The problem with termites is that they can be hard to spot.
You can often catch them when they swarm and lose their wings, or you can find evidence like bubbling or hollow wood. Unfortunately, with termites, you don’t have just a few insects; it’s a whole colony.
To avoid a termite infestation, keep your property clear of deadwood and stumps. This includes any wood chips that you may lay in your flower bed as well.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to maintain a healthy lawn as well. Trim trees and bushes, and cut your lawn regularly. Also, be sure to monitor areas that may accumulate moisture, such as gutters and pipes. Eliminate any possible food and water sources to keep these pests away.
6. Fleas and Ticks
The nasty bloodsuckers aren’t just a problem for Lackawanna County residents; they can also be a problem for your pets! Fleas and ticks are horrible pests, and some can potentially be dangerous. Ticks can carry several severe diseases, such as Lyme disease.
The best way to combat fleas and ticks is by wearing the proper repellents. Ensure your pets have flea and tick medication or collars, and use a bug repellent containing DEET. Keep your yard tidy; these pests are drawn to overgrown areas.
If you find a flea infestation, wash the affected clothing or furniture thoroughly and vacuum surrounding areas. If you have a tick, remove it with the proper tick remover and place it in a plastic bag for testing.
7. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are nasty pests that accumulate in populated areas within Lackawanna County. They tend to lurk in dark, cool places where food and water are abundant, like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
The trouble with cockroaches is that you may not know you have a problem until you turn on the light. These pests can carry diseases like E. coli and post a real threat to your home or business.
When it comes to keeping cockroaches away, the best approach is to eliminate their food supply and hiding places. Ensure that all your food is stored in sealed containers and kept safely packed away, including pet food.
Any areas where food is prepared or consumed should be thoroughly cleaned after each meal. Additionally, it’s best to keep clutter to a minimum to avoid providing potential hiding places. Also, be careful to monitor any areas that may be dripping water.
Tips to Prevent Pests in Lackawanna County
Pests can be a problem anywhere. The most effective way to combat any infestation is to prevent it from occurring in the first place.
Stay vigilant and perform regular maintenance on your property to ensure its optimal condition. As always, if an infestation proves too much or you are concerned that you may have a pest problem, you can refer to a specialist for help.
Here are some prevention tips tailored for homes and businesses in Lackawanna County:
- Seal entry points: Use caulk or weather stripping to seal cracks around doors, windows, and the foundation. Rodents and insects can squeeze through surprisingly small openings.
- Keep food stored properly: Use airtight containers for dry goods, and clean up spills and crumbs promptly. This applies to both kitchens and garages.
- Maintain your yard: Trim bushes and tree limbs away from your house, and remove piles of wood, leaves, or debris where pests like to hide.
- Eliminate standing water: Mosquitoes and other insects breed in stagnant water. Check gutters, flower pots, birdbaths, and low spots in your yard regularly.
- Keep garbage secure: Use sealed trash bins and empty them regularly. Don’t forget about pet food or outdoor feeding areas—they can also attract unwanted guests.
- Inspect seasonal changes: Pests behave differently depending on the season. In Lackawanna County, fall and winter are key times when rodents and bugs seek warm indoor shelter.
Lackawanna Pest Control Options
If you’re facing an ongoing infestation—or simply want peace of mind—professional pest control services in Lackawanna County can offer safe and effective solutions.
Many local pest control companies offer both one-time treatments and long-term prevention plans tailored to your specific property.
When choosing a pest control provider, look for:
- Licensed and insured technicians
- Eco-friendly or pet-safe treatment options
- Expertise with regional pests like carpenter ants, stink bugs, rodents, and ticks
- Preventive maintenance plans to reduce future infestations
Our local experts at The Pest Rangers understand the specific pest challenges in Northeast Pennsylvania and can recommend tailored strategies that work with your home’s layout and the area’s climate.
Whether you live in Scranton, Clarks Summit, Old Forge, or anywhere in between, The Pest Rangers are ready to help.
FAQs
How can I tell if I have a pest infestation?
Signs of an infestation may include droppings, gnaw marks, unusual odors, scratching sounds in walls, nests, or live/dead insects in unusual places. If you suspect a problem, it’s best to have a professional inspection.
Is pest control safe for pets and children?
Many professional pest control companies offer pet-safe and child-friendly options. Always inform your technician about any pets in your home so they can adjust their methods accordingly.
How often should I schedule pest control services?
For preventive treatment, quarterly visits are common. However, if you’re dealing with a specific issue (like termites or rodents), your pest control company may recommend more frequent or targeted visits.
