Common Attic & Crawl Space Pests

Attics and crawl spaces tend to get a bad rap as they are often dark, hidden, and maybe even a little scary. Creepy crawlers and critters are known to hang out in these mysterious parts of our homes but there is no need to be scared. Our experts at Palmetto Exterminators have broken down the most common attic and crawl space pests to watch out for and how to prevent them from getting in. 

Ground Dwelling Insects

Ground dwelling insects are common in attics and crawl spaces. This family of insects include millipedes, termites, beetles, and more. These critters aren’t usually harmful but can be irritating if they are continuously creeping into your storage space. They can be especially frightening if you come into contact with them unexpectedly. Ground dwelling insects typically like wet, dark, and quiet areas so places such as crawl spaces or attics make perfect homes for them.

Cockroaches 

These pesky insects are prominent in many locations but especially in warm, moist, dark, and humid areas. Cockroaches are notorious for populating rapidly so if you see one in your home, you should call your local extermination company. Cockroaches typically enter your space through small cracks or poor weatherstripping. Although cockroaches won’t bite, they can lead to health problems when they infest a home or apartment.

Wasps, Hornets, Bees

Wasps, hornets, and bees are another common pest family that may congregate in attics and crawl spaces. This common childhood fear can enter through ventilation holes. They’re attracted to shelter from hot sun, rain, or wind, and therefore might find comfort in your dark, calm space. While bees are important in nature, you’d probably prefer to keep them outside of your home.

Cluster Flies

In the deep trenches of your attic, you may find a cluster fly. Cluster flies are small but incredulous gnats that give you a small headache. Known for loving attics, they will creep in when the temperature cools down at night. They are large enough where they are easy to trap, and can be deterred by a Citronella fragrance. Cluster flies lay eggs in earthworm burrows in lawns. Therefore, the flies will multiply fast if you don’t get to them quickly. 

Earwigs 

Earwigs, quite a funny name huh? Well, these small creatures have nothing to do with your ears nor do they wear wigs, but they are often found in attics. Earwigs are small, almost rectangular bugs that have a lifespan of about one year. A year is a long time for an insect to make your house their home, so it is important to be on the lookout. Earwigs are not inherently harmful to humans but can destroy storage that may be sitting in your space. They enjoy dark, wet, and undisturbing areas. Additionally, they move relatively quickly and can be hard to catch. Earwigs are attracted to light but tend to be most active during the night. 

Silverfish

Lastly, silverfish. Silverfish is a small, wingless and primitive bug that is active at night. They do not harm humans but will cause damage to books, stored food, photos, and even clothing. Discovering silverfish in your home can be a sign of water-damaged areas, so you’ll want your local pest control experts to find that infestation as soon as possible. 

How to Prevent Bugs from Coming In

There are many ways you can prevent bugs from coming into your home, but you’ll want to take extra precautions in the places you don’t see frequently, like your attic and crawl spaces. Be sure to check the vent covers, making sure they’re properly sealed. You’ll also want to make sure that your gutters aren’t overflowing with debris, as it provides a nice space for bugs to congregate. It’s also important to check your home for no water damage, as many pests gather in damp areas.

While there are several ways you can prevent bugs from entering your home on your own, the experts at Palmetto Exterminators will stop the problem before it starts. For a free pest inspection and quote to keep your home protected from unwanted pests, please call 800-585-8019!