Yellowjacket

Yellowjackets in Florida

Found throughout the United States, yellowjackets are the most infamous wasps  of the stinging insects commonly found in Florida. 

What Do Yellowjackets Look Like?

Yellowjackets are small wasps with yellow and black markings on their abdomen. They have smooth, shiny bodies, and their stingers are capable of stinging multiple times. These insects are known for their aggressive behavior, especially when protecting their nests.

In Florida, there are two types of yellow jackets from the Vespula family: the Eastern yellow jacket (Vespula maculifrons) and the Southern yellow jacket (Vespula squamosa). Yellowjackets are often confused with bald-faced hornets (Dolichovespula maculata) because they look similar. However, bald-faced hornets are typically bigger in size and build their nests above ground, while yellowjackets build their nests underground.

These social wasps can be found in paper nests made from wood fiber, often hidden in wall voids or eaves.

Signs of a Yellowjacket Infestation

If you notice an increase in yellowjacket activity around your property, it may indicate a nearby nest. Look for these signs:

  1. Increased Yellowjacket Activity: Yellowjackets are most active in late summer. You may see them foraging for nectar or food around your home.
  2. Nests in Protected Places: Yellowjacket nests are often hidden in places like eaves, wall voids, or burrows in the ground. These nests are made of paper-like material and can be large.
  3. Aggressive Behavior: If you accidentally disturb their nest, yellowjackets may sting multiple times, injecting venom that can cause pain and, in some cases, allergic reactions.

If you suspect a yellowjacket infestation, it’s best to call pest control professionals who can safely remove nests and prevent sting risk. Contact the experts at Florida Pest Control today.

Habitat, Diet, Life Cycle & Behaviors

Yellowjackets are highly social wasps known for their aggressive behavior and large colonies. They build nests in a variety of locations, including underground burrows, trees, and structures. Their nesting habits, diet, and life cycle play a key role in their behavior and interactions with humans.

Where Do Yellowjackets Live?

Yellowjackets can be divided into ground nesters, which frequently use old rodent burrows, and aerial nesters. Above-ground nests are found among the leafy branches of trees and shrubs and also on structures. Occasionally, the nest may be constructed on the side of a building, in wall voids, under eaves, crawlspaces, and attics. The entrance of the nest is normally a hole located at the bottom. 

These aerial nesters don’t become scavengers in the fall, but they are extremely defensive when their nests are disturbed. Locating the nest, through observing flight patterns, is essential to eliminate them.

Diet

These wasps are scavengers and eat many types of food. Adult yellowjackets feed mainly on fruit juices and other sweet liquid materials, whereas their larvae are fed bits of soft-bodied insects like caterpillars and flies. In late summer, when natural food sources are fewer, yellowjackets become more aggressive in their search for sweet foods, including food scraps from humans.

Life Cycle

Yellowjackets begin their life cycle in spring when a fertilized queen starts a new colony. She builds a small paper nest and lays eggs that hatch into worker yellowjackets. These workers help expand the nest and take care of the colony. As summer continues, the colony grows bigger, and new queens and males are made. By late summer, the colony reaches its full size. In the fall, most of the colony dies off, and the fertilized queens overwinter, starting the cycle again the next year.

Behaviors

Yellowjackets are social wasps that live in large colonies. They protect their nests and can become very aggressive if they feel threatened. These beneficial wasps live in colonies with thousands of individuals and would be a lesser threat to humans were it not for their opportunistic behavior of nesting in structural voids, attics, and cavities associated with landscaping features. They are most active in late summer when they are foraging for food and defending their nests.

Are Yellowjackets Dangerous?

Yes, yellowjackets can be dangerous. Yellowjackets are slow to sting unless their nest is threatened. However their stings pose a more serious threat to humans than bees’ stings, because a yellowjacket’s stinger is not barbed like a honeybee, allowing it to sting repeatedly. Some individuals are more sensitive than others, due to allergic reactions, and should seek medical attention when stung. These wasps are known to become more aggressive in the late summer and early fall months.

Sometimes yellowjackets living in wall voids chew their way through the drywall and enter the structure’s living space. Naturally, the presence of large numbers of wasps flying around the room can be alarming to homeowners. If you spot a yellowjacket nest, always contact a licensed wasp removal expert for help.

How to Get Rid of Yellowjackets?

The safest way to get rid of yellowjackets is to call a professional pest control service like Florida Pest Control. Our experts can find and remove yellowjacket nests without causing harm. Trying to remove a nest yourself can be dangerous, especially if you disturb the yellowjackets.

Yellowjacket Prevention Tips

To prevent yellowjackets from nesting near your home, follow these tips:

  • Seal cracks and gaps: Block any entry points around your home to prevent yellowjackets from getting inside.
  • Keep trash bins covered: Make sure your trash bins are tightly sealed to avoid attracting yellowjackets with food scraps.
  • Remove fallen fruit: Yellowjackets are drawn to sugary foods, so pick up any fallen fruit from trees regularly.
  • Inspect for nests: Check areas like eaves and wall voids for early signs of nests to catch them before they become a problem.

Need Help with Bees, Wasps, or Hornets?

Don’t wait to act. From yellowjackets to paper wasps to honeybees, these stinging insects can be dangerous, especially when threatened. Our team of bee, wasp, and hornet exterminators will safely remove nests and help prevent future infestations. Get your FREE quote with Florida Pest Control today.

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FAQs

How can you get rid of a yellowjacket nest?

To safely get rid of a yellowjacket nest, it’s best to contact pest control experts, who have the necessary protective clothing and expertise. Attempting to remove the nest yourself can be dangerous since yellowjackets can sting multiple times when threatened.

Are yellowjackets pollinators?

Yes, yellowjackets do help with pollination. As their primary diet consists of nectar and sugary foods, they visit flowers to feed, transferring pollen in the process.

Do yellowjackets leave stingers?

Unlike honey bees, yellowjackets do not leave their stinger behind when they sting. Their smooth stinger allows them to sting multiple times. This can make them more dangerous to humans, especially if they feel their nest is threatened.

Where do yellowjackets nest?

Yellowjackets build nests in various locations, including underground burrows, tree branches, eaves, and wall voids. They construct their nests using wood fiber, creating paper-like structures.

Where do yellowjacket wasps go in the winter?

In winter, yellowjacket colonies typically die off, but fertilized queens survive. These queens overwinter in protected places, such as under tree bark or in wall voids. Come spring, the queen will start a new colony, laying eggs that hatch into workers to help build the nest.

Wolf Spider

Wolf Spiders in Florida

Florida hosts several types of wolf spiders, including the well-known Carolina wolf spider (Hogna carolinensis), the Rabid wolf spider (Rabidosa rabida), the Dotted wolf spider (Rabidosa punctulata), and the endemic, Oyola wolf spider (Hogna Oyola).

Wolf spiders in Florida have excellent eyesight that detects people before they’re seen, allowing them to flee when approached. Many of them are nocturnal, using a special eye structure to improve night vision. If you shine a flashlight at ground level, you may see their green eyes shine from 10–30 feet away, depending on the spider’s size.

Though they can appear alarming due to their size their appearance can frighten homeowners when they wander inside. If you see them often, you may want to explore spider extermination services to prevent population spread.

Wolf Spider Habitat

Florida wolf spiders are active hunters that patrol the ground for insects, small spiders, and similar prey. They do not use webs to capture prey and hunt in the open, both day and night, often living by the thousands in leaf litter and grassy areas. Some wolf spiders build small silk-tubular burrows with turrets, using debris to conceal the entrance, while others will defend a territory or roam freely. These spiders are often found in high numbers and are key predators in the ecosystems they live in. 

Their natural habitats are under rocks, stones, logs, and leaf litter in open fields, coastal forests, near riverbanks, or scrubby areas with dense vegetation. During colder months, they move indoors toto garages, basements, and around the edges of windows and doors. With thousands living in natural spaces, wolf spiders in Florida are a common sight in both residential and rural areas.

Wolf Spider Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Female wolf spiders can lay hundreds of eggs and carry their young on their backs for several weeks or months until the spiderlings are ready to go off on their own. The spiderlings then go through multiple molts, with some species reaching maturity and reproducing in about three years. Male wolf spiders often die after a year, while females can live for several years and reproduce multiple times.  

The risk of being bitten by a wolf spider in Florida is low. While they may appear aggressive when chasing down prey, they usually avoid people. Bites are uncommon and typically happen only when the spider is handled or feels threatened. Wolf spiders are also known to jump, which can catch people off guard, but this is part of their hunting behavior, and not necessarily an aggressive action.

If bitten, most healthy adults will only experience minor swelling or pain like a bee sting. However, some individuals, like children, older adults, or those with medical conditions, are at higher risk of an adverse reaction. If a bite occurs, clean the area and contact a healthcare professional for guidance.

For homes or businesses that frequently see wolf spiders, consider residential or commercial spider control to help keep your property protected.

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

Will a Wolf Spider Bite?

A wolf spider in Florida may bite if threatened, but this isn’t common. These spiders would rather run than fight. Most bites happen when a spider is trapped in clothing or handled. While a wolf spider may look intimidating, the risk of a serious bite is very low. If bitten, reach out to a healthcare professional. If you’re seeing frequent activity, our spider extermination services can help.

Is a Wolf Spider Deadly?

No, it is not deadly. These spiders may look scary, but their venom isn’t potent enough to harm healthy adults. That said, some people may be more sensitive to bites from Florida wolf spiders, especially children or those with weakened immune systems. If you’re unsure what kind of spider you’ve seen, check out the most venomous spiders in Florida to compare.

Does a Wolf Spider Jump?

Yes, wolf spiders can jump short distances, often when they’re hunting or trying to escape. While it’s not known for long leaps like some other species, this behavior helps it move fast and catch prey. Seeing a Florida wolf spider jump might be surprising, but it doesn’t mean it’s trying to bite. Their jump is part of their survival, not a threat.

Silverfish

Silverfish in Florida

Silverfish and firebrats have enzymes in their gut that digest cellulose, and will inhabit bookcases, closets, and places where books, clothing, starch, or dry foods are available. Both silverfish and firebrats are capable of swift movement and their ability to move sideways or even jump when disturbed. Since the bodies of these insects are flattened, they can find harborage in very small cracks and crevices, even within narrow book bindings, the loose pages of books, and corrugated cardboard.

Silverfish Habitat

Silverfish consume both carbohydrates and proteins, and can also be cannibalistic, eating cast skins of dead and injured individuals. These nocturnal insects cannot survive without humidity and will hide during the day in high moisture areas like laundry rooms, under kitchen and bathroom sinks, and in crawl spaces. Silverfish are pests of paper, particularly paper with a glazed finish. They are especially fond of the sizing in paper products, which may consist of starch, dextrin, casein, gum, and glue.

Silverfish Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Silverfish do not have wings, and instead of moving from place to place by flying, they move in a very quick fish-like manner. If the object they are hiding beneath is moved, they will dart toward another secluded place.  They do not bite or sting, but they can cause significant damage to personal items and food sources. Silverfish have weak jaws, causing them to scrape instead of bite. Their scraping activity results in holes in fabric and clothing, and discoloration of books, paper products, and wallpaper. Silverfish can contaminate dry foods such as cereals, flour, pasta, and pet food.

If you have excess silverfish in your Florida property, contact your local exterminators for help.

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Sac Spider

Sac Spiders in Florida

Indigenous to North America, the Cheiracanthium inclusum yellow (black-footed) sac spider is common in Florida and the main sac spider found across the continent. A related species called Cheiracanthium mildei,  is also widespread across the region but was introduced from Europe by English colonists. 

The small Cheiracanthium inclusum sac spider is typically pale yellow to greenish in color, although in certain light, it may appear to be a clear spider. They are eight-legged arachnids with long, slender, and dark-tipped legs. Their tarsi (or last segments of their legs) point straight down, unlike other common spiders, which helps with identification.

Unlike the brown recluse, the sac spider lacks the violin-shaped marking, and usually enters homes by accident. It hunts other spiders and small insects, contributing to natural pest control. Sac spiders, like the yellow sac spider in Florida , are active at night and do not rely on webs to catch their prey. Although they may help reduce insect populations outside, their presence indoors is usually unwanted and unsettling, making professional spider extermination services a practical solution.

Sac Spider Habitat

Sac spiders build protective silk sacs under bark, leaves, or mulch to hide and protect their eggs. They rest in these sacs by day, hunt at night, and often leave them behind to build new ones, making this species seem a bit nomadic.

These spiders may enter homes in the fall when outdoor temperatures drop and sometimes enter homes on produce, like grapes, or in boxes and containers. Once inside, the fast-moving yellow sac spider will climb walls, hiding in corners, ceiling joints, behind furniture, or where walls meet other surfaces. While often hard to spot, their silk retreat is a giveaway of one or more spiders nearby.

Sac Spider Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Sac spiders do not use webs to catch prey. Instead, they are active nocturnal hunters, using their front legs to detect vibrations and smells, seizing their prey with specialized hairs and claws. Their diet mostly consists of small insects and arthropods such as flies, mosquitoes, ants, aphids, thrips, mites, and small moths. 

This also means that while their primary diet is smaller insects, they can occasionally capture larger prey like caterpillars and grasshoppers. They may also feed on nectar, which can enhance their survival, growth, and ability to reproduce, especially when insect prey is scarce. When other food is really limited, yellow sac spiders may even resort to cannibalism, eating other spiders or even their own eggs.

The bite from a yellow sac spider can be painful, although it is not deemed medically dangerous for most people. Symptoms may include localized swelling, redness, and, in some cases, a sore that takes time to heal. These bites are often confused with those of the brown recluse spider, but reactions from sac spider bites tend to be milder.

Some people may experience a stronger reaction due to allergies. If a bite leads to swelling, spreading redness, or other worsening symptoms, you should seek advice or treatment from a healthcare professional.

How to Get Rid of Sac Spiders?

While DIY methods, such as sticky traps, can help detect spiders, they often provide only short-term relief as they don’t address the root cause. If you’ve seen a yellow or tan spider, it’s worth having an expert confirm its identity and recommend a long-term plan to limit future activity. To effectively manage sac spiders indoors, start by identifying and sealing entry points such as cracks around doors, windows, and building foundations. 

Additionally, remove clutter inside the home and vacuum regularly, paying close attention to corners and areas where these spiders might hide or build their characteristic sacs. Tidying outside spaces, such as clearing yard debris and decaying matter, like bark and fallen leaves, also helps.

For a comprehensive solution, consider working with local Florida spider exterminators who understand the habits of sac spiders in Florida homes.

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 Frequently Asked Questions

 

What Does a Yellow Sac Spider Bite Look Like?

A bite from a yellow sac spider often appears as a small red bump. If scratched, it may develop into a blister or open sore. Pain and itching are common. While most bites heal without serious problems, individuals who notice spreading redness, persistent swelling, or discomfort should contact a medical provider.

Is a Yellow Sac Spider Poisonous?

The yellow sac spider is venomous. However, it is not considered dangerous to the average person and doesn’t present a serious health risk in most cases. If you’re unsure about the spider or its bite, consult a healthcare professional for advice.

What Are The Risks With Sac Spiders?

Young children and pets may be more likely to disturb a sac spider without realizing it, increasing the chance of a bite. If bitten, they might scratch or lick the area, which could lead to further irritation or possible infection. Always speak with a healthcare provider or veterinarian if you’re worried about a suspected bite and potential risks.

Paper Wasp

Paper Wasps in Florida

Paper wasps are amongst the more common wasp species found in Florida. There are over 22 species of paper wasps in the U.S., and most of them are brownish in color with yellow markings. 

Often confused with yellowjackets, paper wasps are sometimes referred to as umbrella wasps, and are most easily identified by their nests. Paper wasp nests often look like an upside-down paper cone and typically hang from a horizontal surface in a shaded, protected location. Like other types of wasps, paper wasps feed on insects, spiders, and the like.

What Do Paper Wasps Look Like?

Paper wasps are slender with long legs that dangle while flying. They typically grow up to 1 inch in length and have smooth bodies with yellow markings on their abdomen, which helps distinguish them from honey bees or European hornets. 

Some species, like the European paper wasp (Polistes dominula), have a reddish tint, while others, like the northern paper wasp (Polistes fuscatus) have darker coloring. The common paper wasp (Polistes exclamans) can be identified by its reddish-brown body.

All types of paper wasps have noticeable antennae and a thin petiole, which is the narrow “waist” that connects their thorax to their abdomen. This gives them their unique, slender look.

Signs of a Paper Wasp Infestation

Knowing the signs of a paper wasp infestation can help you spot the problem early and prevent a more serious issue. Look out for:

  • Nests near eaves or porch ceilings: Look for nests made of chewed paper fibers, often found in sheltered areas.
  • Increased wasp activity: Wasps flying around nesting sites or entrances, especially during the warmer months as they build new nests.
  • Nests that resemble open umbrellas: These nests are often made of thin layers of paper and can be seen hanging from tree branches or under roof overhangs.
  • Presence of wasp larvae: If you see paper wasps bringing insects like caterpillars back to the nest, it’s a sign they’re feeding their larva.
  • Aggressive behavior: If the nests are disturbed, paper wasps may become defensive.

If you notice these signs around your home, it’s a good idea to take action before the infestation grows. Our wasp experts at Florida Pest Control can safely remove nests and prevent future problems.

Habitat, Diet, Life Cycle & Behaviors

Understanding the habitat, diet, and behaviors of paper wasps can help homeowners manage their presence.

Where Do Paper Wasps Live?

Paper Wasp nest in a White Cedar Tree - Ontario, Canada

Paper wasp nests are known to look like upside-down umbrellas and have a papier-mȃché feel to them. Unlike yellowjacket nests, paper wasp nests are partially open and not completely covered. 

Nests can most often be found on tree branches or under eaves, attic rafters, and porch ceilings. Because nests can be built directly on a home, these wasps have been known to make their way indoors through holes in attic vent screens or underneath shingles.

Diet

Paper wasps mainly feed on nectar from flowers, but they also hunt other insects like caterpillars. They bring these insects back to their nests to feed their larva. This makes them helpful for controlling garden pests, though they can become a nuisance when they nest near human activity.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of a paper wasp starts in the spring. A fertilized queen finds a spot to build a new nest. She lays eggs that hatch into larvae, which grow and pupate before turning into adult wasps.These larvae develop into workers who help the queen by building the nest, gathering food, and caring for the next generation. In the fall, new queens are born. These queens overwinter and begin the cycle again the next year.

Behaviors

Similar to mud daubers, paper wasps are considered to be beneficial to the environment for keeping the insect population under control. They also assist in pollination by feeding on nectar. They are mostly solitary when it comes to feeding, but they live in colonies.

These wasps use pheromones to communicate with each other, especially when warning the colony of danger. They work together to build nests and care for the larvae. Worker wasps are responsible for gathering food, while the queen focuses on laying eggs. 

Are Paper Wasps Dangerous?

Paper wasps are considered aggressive and have been known to sting repeatedly when threatened. For this reason, it’s important to never disturb their nest. Stings can be extremely painful, which is why you should leave it up to a professional wasp control company to control paper wasp infestations in or near your home.

Some people may have allergic reactions, which can lead to trouble breathing, dizziness, or swelling in other parts of the body. If this happens seek medical help immediately.

How To Get Rid of Paper Wasps

The best and safest way to get rid of paper wasps is by hiring a professional pest control service like Florida Pest Control. Professionals have the expertise to safely remove paper wasp nests and address potential nesting sites to prevent future infestations.

Attempting to remove a nest yourself can be dangerous and increase the risk of being stung. Don’t take the risk— let the experts handle it. If you’re dealing with a paper wasp problem, contact Florida Pest Control today.

Paper Wasp Prevention Tips

To avoid dealing with paper wasp infestations, follow these simple prevention tips:

  • Seal cracks and holes: Close gaps around doors, windows, and eaves where wasps might build nests.
  • Remove food sources: Clean up spills and garbage to prevent attracting wasps looking for food.
  • Inspect outdoor spaces: Check porch ceilings, tree branches, and other sheltered areas for early signs of nests.
  • Use wasp deterrents: Hang fake nests or apply deterrent sprays in high-risk areas.
  • Trim vegetation: Cut back overgrown shrubs or trees to reduce potential nesting spots.

Need Help with Bees, Wasps, or Hornets?

If you’re dealing with bees, wasps, or hornets around your home, it’s important to act quickly. From paper wasps to velvet ant wasps, no matter the species, these stinging insects can be dangerous when threatened.

Florida Pest Control offers safe and effective solutions to remove these pests and prevent future issues.

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FAQs

Are paper wasps aggressive?

Yes, paper wasps can be aggressive if they feel their nest or larvae are in danger. They use their stinger to defend themselves and their colony. If they feel threatened, they can sting multiple times to protect the nest, especially when guarding their queen.

How big will paper wasps make their nest?

Paper wasp nests can be about 6 to 12 inches wide. They are built in protected areas like eaves of houses, tree branches, or porch ceilings. A queen starts the nest, and it grows as more wasps join the colony and help build it.

Do paper wasps die in winter?

Paper wasp workers die in the winter, but the queen survives by overwintering in a safe spot. In the spring, she starts a new colony by laying eggs. The cycle repeats each year with a new queen and larvae.

Do paper wasps have a queen?

Yes, each paper wasp colony has one queen who lays all the eggs. The workers take care of the nest and protect the queen. In winter, the queen overwinters until she wakes up to start a new colony in the spring.

Do paper wasps pollinate?

Yes, paper wasps help pollinate plants. They feed on nectar from flowers and, while doing so, spread pollen.

Millipede

Millipedes in Florida

Millipedes, sometimes called “thousand leggers”, are household pests. These creatures normally live outdoors where they feed on damp and decaying wood and vegetable matter, as well as tender roots and green leaves on the ground. Many millipede species protect themselves by means of glands that secrete an unpleasant odor. Millipedes are found in every U.S. state, including Alaska and Hawaii, as well as in Puerto Rico.

Millipede Habitat

In nature, millipedes are scavengers and feed mainly on decaying organic matter. They occasionally feed on young plants but the damage inflicted is seldom significant. Millipedes have high moisture requirements and tend to remain hidden under objects during the day. Millipedes often leave their natural habitats at night and crawl about over sidewalks, patios, and foundations. At certain times of the year, especially during autumn, they may migrate into buildings in great numbers.

Millipede Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

While millipedes sometimes enter structures in large numbers, they do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases, nor do they infest food, clothing, or wood. Millipedes are simply a nuisance by their presence, often invading crawl spaces, damp basements, and first floors of structures at ground level. Frequent sightings of these pests indoors usually mean that there are large numbers breeding on the outside in the lawn, or beneath mulch, leaf litter, or debris close to the foundation. Because of their moisture requirement, millipedes do not survive indoors for more than a few days unless there are very moist or damp conditions.

If you are dealing with excess millipedes in your Florida property, contact your local exterminators.

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Ladybug

Ladybugs in Florida

Ladybugs, also called lady beetles or ladybird beetles, one the most visible beneficial insects due to their feeding on harmful insects. They are natural enemies of many insects, especially aphids and other sap feeders. A single ladybug may eat as many as 5,000 aphids in its lifetime. Many species of ladybugs are present throughout the United States and are common in most habitats. At times, however, these beetles make a nuisance of themselves by invading homes.

Ladybug Habitat

Ladybugs can be found in many different habitats including forests, grasslands, rivers, and in cities and suburbs. These beetles mainly live in shrubs, trees, fields, gardens, and sometimes within homes. Aphids are a ladybugs’ main source of food and they often lay their eggs near aphid colonies. Ladybugs hibernate in mass over the winter, usually in protected places like cracks in rocks, tree trunks, and in buildings and homes.

Ladybug Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Ladybugs are important beneficial insects to have around as they prey on aphids and other insects that can destroy gardens and crops. However, in some areas, these beneficial beetles can become a nuisance when they enter homes. Ladybugs are overwintering insects and when one ladybug finds a suitable spot to hibernate, it produces a pheromone that attracts other ladybugs to the site. It is not uncommon to find dozens, if not hundreds of ladybugs congregating together in clumps. Quite often, a few misguided beetles get confused and enter homes through electrical outlets and other openings in walls.

If you suspect a ladybug infestation, contact your local pest control company.

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Kudzu Bug

Kudzu Bugs in Florida

The kudzu bug is an invasive exotic pest of soybeans and has been present in the southeastern United States since 2009. It has quickly become established as a severe economic pest of soybean in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Alabama. The kudzu bug is a nuisance pest to homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts during early spring and the fall. Kudzu bugs are inactive during the winter months and seek overwintering sites in the fall.

Kudzu Bug Habitat

Outdoors, kudzu bugs will congregate in gaps under the bark of trees, gaps under the siding of homes, and higher elevations, such as the fascia boards and gutters on the edges of homes. Kudzu bugs are attracted to light-colored surfaces and are especially fond of the color white. They will congregate on the white siding of a house, a white car, or a white t-white shirt. In early fall, kudzu bugs will often congregate on light-colored exterior walls of structures, then move into gaps and cracks seeking shelter and warmth in which to overwinter.

Kudzu Bug Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Kudzu bugs do not bite and are not harmful to humans, but when crushed or agitated, they emit a potent odor similar to the brown marmorated stink bug. Additionally, like stink bugs and boxelder bugs, the kudzu bug can become an annoying pest for homeowners in the fall. They will congregate in large numbers on the sunny side of structures to warm themselves and may find their way indoors through cracks and crevices. Once inside, however, they are unable to feed or reproduce and will exit structures when the weather warms up in spring.

If you are dealing with a kudzu bug issue on your property, contact your local exterminators.

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House Cricket

House Crickets in Florida

The house cricket was introduced into Canada and the United States in the 18th century and attracted the attention of early writers by its serenades and whimsical habit of chewing on clothes. House crickets are nocturnal and omnivorous, feeding readily on various foods, and are particularly attracted to liquids, especially fermented beverages such as beer or sweetened vinegar. They are drawn to warm moist environments, seeking food and shelter within homes and structures as temperatures cool down in the fall.

House Cricket Habitat

During warm weather, the house cricket lives outdoors in piles of debris, rocks, firewood, and lumber. They may also be seen in compost bins and garbage dumps during the winter, as well as in houses, sheds, and other shelters. With the coming of cold weather, the house cricket enters homes and is active in warm areas of the house. House crickets are nocturnal and usually first make themselves evident at dusk when they begin to seek food in homes. Homeowners may also be alerted to their presence by the familiar chirping sounds made by males. When attracting females, males rub their front wings together causing a chirping sound.

House Cricket Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

House crickets do not bite or spread disease, however, they can become a nuisance if they gain entry into a home, damaging clothing, carpets, and areas covered in fabric. Because these crickets are attracted to warmth, they are often present in the vicinity of the fireplace, kitchen, furnace, water heater, and basement. They conceal themselves in cracks, behind baseboards, and may burrow into the mortar of walls. The house cricket is especially destructive to silk and woolens.

If you have a house cricket infestation in your Florida property, contact your local exterminators.

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House Centipede

House Centipedes in Florida

House centipedes are found throughout the United States and have an abundance of legs, fifteen pairs of very long, slender legs to be exact. As terrifying as they look, house centipedes are beneficial invertebrates, assisting homeowners in keeping pests like cockroaches and spiders under control. Though house centipedes are found both indoors and outdoors, accidentally finding one trapped in the sink or bathtub, can be frightening. When outdoors, house centipedes are not considered harmful, but they may be considered pests when they share living spaces with us.

House Centipede Habitat

House centipedes are attracted to moisture and can be found outside under stones, boards, or sticks or beneath moist leaf litter and other organic matter. When found in homes, house centipedes most often occur in moist cellars, damp closets, and bathrooms, where they feed on insects and spiders. When disturbed, centipedes move quickly toward darkened hiding places. If house centipedes are abundant, there may be an underlying moisture problem in the home that should be corrected.

House Centipede Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

House centipedes have a pair of poison claws located behind their head and use them to poison and paralyze their prey, usually small insects. The weak jaws of the house centipede can penetrate the skin, but with difficulty. Bites can result in swelling and pain, but usually are no worse than a bee sting. House centipedes are considered nuisance pests and when they come into your yard, it is often because they are looking for food. If centipedes find food near your exterior walls, and there are open cracks or crevices, they can accidentally get inside your home.

If you are dealing with house centipedes on your property, contact your local exterminators.

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