Sometimes, the creepiest crawlies come out at night. While it’s easy to spot critters like wasps and butterflies during the day, plenty of nocturnal creatures only come out after dark.
Most of these bugs, like any other insect, are harmless. However, they are still not welcome inside your home. The last thing you want to worry about at night before you hit your bed is that some tiny creature is paying an unexpected visit.
Fortunately, our home protection plans are designed to thwart over a dozen common daytime and nighttime bugs.
To help you keep an eye out so you don’t have to keep one eye open, here are the top 11 nocturnal bugs in Northeast Pennsylvania and tips to prevent them from coming inside.
1. Moths
Most moths are nocturnal and are attracted to artificial light. These flying insects can range in size from very small to large, like the Sphinx Moth. Some of the bigger species can have intricate designs on their wings, much like butterflies.
They must keep moving to stay active and alive as their muscle movement regulates their body heat. A moth’s primary goal is to reach adulthood and mate before they die.
While the moths found in NEPA are generally harmless, they are attracted to bright lights and can be bothersome. However, they are responsible for a good amount of pollination, which makes them very important to the ecosystem.
The best way to keep these creatures out of your house is by doing routine pest maintenance on your screen doors and windows and sealing up any potential entryways. Turn off outdoor light fixtures and be careful when opening and closing doors at night.
2. Fireflies
These tiny, flying beetles are a summertime joy. The light show they provide results from a chemical reaction that makes them bioluminescent. While the males do the flying, the females lay low and emit their flashes so they can find a mate.
These little creatures, known as lightning bugs, feed and pollinate at night and are entirely nocturnal. They are pretty harmless–just don’t eat them, as they can enter a process called “reflex bleeding,” which can leave a poisonous residue behind.
Much like with moths, these nocturnal insects tend to stay outside. Keep up on your home’s maintenance by sealing any open cracks, broken screens, and other possible openings.
3. Centipedes
These insects can be quite the sight at night as they scurry across your basement or bathroom floor. These dark dwellers have eight pairs of legs and can sting with their front set. They are quick, quiet, and hard to detect. You’ll only notice them when they are hunting for food. They tend to feast on several different pests and hide out in dark, damp areas.
To keep centipedes at bay, watch the moisture level in your home. Get a dehumidifier or another device to control the humidity and moisture in your home.
4. Mosquitoes
Small, annoying, and potentially deadly, Mosquitoes live for the night. While they enjoy warm weather, they tend to come out in swarms when it’s cooler. These little bloodsuckers make nests in standing water anywhere they can find it. Plus, the closer they are to hosts, the longer they will stay.
The best way to combat mosquitoes is by using a repellent with DEET. For guaranteed protection, we offer mosquito yard sprays that prevent mosquitoes from coming into your property and also repel ticks.
5. Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are nocturnal insects that eat in the dark of night and don’t stray far from their host. Bed bugs can burrow into bed stands, mattresses, floorboards, and walls. While they do not transmit diseases, you can get a secondary infection from their bites.
Unlike the other entries on this list, bed bugs can be more difficult to eliminate. Remember to inspect any items or clothes you bring into your home. If you spot a bed bug, run your bedding and clothes through the dryer on high heat. Consider contacting a pest control expert to assess the infestation.
6. Crickets
Crickets during the summer can be a wonderful sound if it’s outside. While crickets may not be harmful, they can be annoying. They are noisy and tend to feed on fabric, so your closet can take a heavy hit. Crickets are attracted to light and warm, moist environments. They will cluster in any damp area, such as a basement with a leaking pipe.
The best way to combat this pest is simply by keeping those moist areas dry. Patch any leaks and seal any possible entryways to avoid an unwanted symphony.
7. Cockroaches
These six-legged roaches prefer to come out at night. They are quick, quiet, and usually come in great numbers. Not only are they hard to get rid of, but they can also carry several diseases that can be very dangerous to you and your family.
They prefer to come out during times of little or no activity, and unfortunately, you may need the aid of a pest control specialist to get rid of them for good.
8. Black Widows
One of the most venomous spiders, the black widow, has a venom 15 times stronger than a rattlesnake’s. Though they only attack when provoked, they do tend to do their feeding at night. Their prey consists of flies, mosquitoes, grasshoppers, beetles, and more, so they are pest control experts.
The key to avoiding these deadly nocturnal insects is to be careful outdoors. They live in dry, dark areas, like garages, basements, or in brush or vegetation. Check any shoes you may leave outdoors, and be mindful of any spiders you may see in your home.
9. Wolf Spider
This night hunter is much more aggressive yet far less deadly than the Black Widow. The Wolf Spider has been known to attack humans, as they would any other prey. They are normally found in dark places, like a garage, basement, or under a woodpile.
Much like the Black Widow, the best way to avoid the Wolf Spider is to perform regular maintenance and plug up any possible entryways. Be cautious when using items left outside or when entering dark areas. A little caution can help you avoid a nasty bite.
10. Dobsonfly or Hellgrammites
The dobsonfly is commonly found near sources of water. Though poor swimmers, these creatures tend to hide under leaves and strike at their prey. While these creatures are not easy on the eyes, you should keep both on them. The females can leave a nasty bite. Dobson flies have a short lifespan and are often used as fishing bait.
If you want to keep these creatures as far away as possible, avoid any type of water. These insects are drawn to moist areas, so try to keep the area dry. They are also drawn to light sources, so remember to turn off those outdoor lights.
11. Kissing Bug or Triatomine Bug
Recently, an invasive species known as the “Kissing Bug” has reached Pennsylvania. These nocturnal insects feed off the blood of animals: mammals, birds, and reptiles. While we’re no stranger to blood-sucking creatures, this insect carries a potentially fatal parasite.
This parasite transferred through their feces, can transmit Chagas disease, which can be fatal if left untreated. Often, they will not stray far from the blood host. They can be spotted near a pet resting area, in bedrooms, mattresses, or nightstands. They can also be found near rodent infestations.
If you happen to find one, do not squash or squish this insect. Place the kissing bug in a glass container and fill it with rubbing alcohol. If none is available, you can freeze it. Take the insect to the CDC for testing.
How to Protect Against Nocturnal Insects
There is no need to fear the creatures that emerge at night. With the right precautions, you can enjoy a peaceful, insect-free environment. The key to preventing issues with nocturnal insects is to be proactive and diligent in your efforts to keep them out.
1. Routine Home Maintenance
Regularly inspect your home for potential entry points that insects might use to get inside. This includes sealing cracks and gaps in walls, around windows and doors, and in the foundation. Pay special attention to areas where utility lines and pipes enter the home, as these are common access points for insects. Installing weather stripping and door sweeps can also help create a barrier that nocturnal insects cannot easily breach.
2. Outdoor Lighting
Nocturnal insects are often attracted to light, so consider using yellow or amber-colored bulbs in outdoor lighting fixtures. These lights are less attractive to insects compared to traditional white or blue-toned bulbs. Additionally, minimizing the use of outdoor lights when not necessary can reduce the number of insects drawn to your home.
3. Screen Protection
Ensure that all windows and doors are equipped with screens that are in good condition. Repair or replace any screens with holes or tears, as even the smallest opening can allow insects to enter. For added protection, consider installing fine mesh screens that can keep out smaller insects like mosquitoes and gnats.
4. Indoor Precautions
Keep food and trash inside your home in airtight containers to avoid attracting insects. Clean up crumbs and spills promptly, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight. Regularly vacuum and dust to remove potential hiding spots for insects. Using natural deterrents like essential oils (such as citronella, peppermint, or eucalyptus) can also help keep insects at bay.
5. Yard and Garden Maintenance
Nocturnal insects often breed and thrive in overgrown vegetation, standing water, and cluttered areas. Keep your yard well-maintained by trimming shrubs, regularly mowing the lawn, and eliminating stagnant water sources. Use insect-repellent plants like lavender, marigolds, or lemongrass around your home’s perimeter to naturally deter pests.
6. Pest Control Services
If you suspect a problem with nocturnal insects or notice an increase in their presence despite your efforts, it’s wise to contact a pest control expert. Professionals can assess the situation, identify the type of insects you’re dealing with, and implement targeted treatments to eliminate the issue. By addressing the problem early, you can prevent a small nuisance from turning into a major infestation.
7. Stay Informed
Understanding the habits and behaviors of nocturnal insects can help you take more effective measures against them. Learn about the types of insects common in your area, their preferred habitats, and the seasons when they are most active. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions about how to protect your home.
FAQs
Why are nocturnal insects attracted to my home?
Nocturnal insects are often drawn to light sources, warmth, and food. Bright outdoor lights, open windows, and uncovered food or trash can attract these insects to your home.
How can I prevent nocturnal insects from entering my home?
Perform routine home maintenance, such as sealing cracks and gaps in walls, doors, and windows. Installing screens on windows and using door sweeps can also help keep insects out.
Are certain types of outdoor lighting better for deterring nocturnal insects?
Yes, using yellow or amber-colored light bulbs outdoors can reduce the attraction of insects. These bulbs are less likely to attract nocturnal insects than white or blue-toned lights.