No Risk Archives | Bug Out - Pest Control and Extermination Services

Clothes Moth

close up of a golden brown clothing moth on blue and white cloth.

Clothes Moths in Florida

Adult clothes moths have a distinct, iridescent sheen on their wings. One species, known as the webbing clothes moths, feature golden or yellow wings with bright red or orange hairs on their heads. Casemaking clothes moths have a similar shape but differ in color, with brown or tan wings speckled with dark spots. Both species measure about a quarter of an inch long, though webbing clothes moths tend to be slightly larger. Their larvae are pale yellow or cream-colored with dark red or brown heads. These moths can inhabit vents and ductwork, where their larvae feed on trapped lint, hair, and debris. Unlike most moth species, clothes moths actively avoid light.

Clothes Moth Habitat

Clothes moths settle in areas with an accessible food source, often found in closets, storage boxes, chests, dressers, and taxidermy displays. Indoors, their larvae commonly infest wool clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and any old wool rug remnants they can find. Lint from wool rugs and pet hair accumulating behind baseboards, or in floor cracks, can also attract infestations. A common egg-laying site is the carpet beneath the back legs of a sofa, as it’s an area that often evades any vacuuming. While adult moths, pupae, and eggs do not feed, the larvae are responsible for fabric damage. They consume materials like wool, feathers, hair, leather, fish meal, lint, and other animal-based fibers. Items frequently targeted include scarves, coats, toys, rugs, blankets, sweaters, taxidermy mounts, and upholstered furniture.

Clothes Moth Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

The larvae are known to cause damage, as they feed on all of the mentioned materials. Casemaking clothes moth larvae carry a silk cocoon with them, expanding it as they grow. This disguise is made of the fiber they’re currently feeding off of, making them difficult to spot, and allowing them to feed unnoticed if you don’t catch them.

Eastern Subterranean Termite

Identifying Eastern Subterranean Termites in Florida

The eastern subterranean termite is a social insect and the most common and widely distributed termite in North America. Due to its wide distribution, it is considered the most economically important and damaging species in the U.S. Termites consume cellulose, the main structural component of plant cells. Any wood material in a home is a potential food source, but it may also damage non-wood material in search of food. Termites rarely show themselves in the open, and infestations can be difficult to detect until the damage becomes severe.

Where in Florida Do Eastern Subterranean Termites Live?

Eastern subterranean termites live in the ground and feed on plant materials. In structures, they live in walls, basements, crawl spaces, and other damp areas. Termites swarm in the spring to find a mate. Winged termites are attracted to light and will swarm around doors and windows. After fluttering about for a short time, the termites break off their wings and pair off, becoming king and queen of a new termite colony. A common sign of termites is the presence of mud tubes, inside or outside of a home. Termites make these earth-colored tubes primarily as a protected runway from the earth to the wood they feed upon.

How Common Are Eastern Subterranean Termites in Florida?

Eastern subterranean termites are extremely common in Florida. The state’s climate and environment provide perfect breeding grounds for these pests. Infestations are frequently reported in both residential and commercial properties across the state. The warm temperatures and high humidity levels allow their colonies to flourish year-round.

Florida’s dense population and extensive development also contribute to the prevalence of these termite species. Human activities, such as landscaping and construction, can inadvertently disturb their colonies or provide new food sources, facilitating their spread. Regular inspections and preventive measures are essential to manage infestation risk effectively.

Are Eastern Subterranean Termites Dangerous?

Because termites consume cellulose, any wood material in a house is a potential food source. Termites are secretive, and when termite damage becomes evident, it is usually the result of a few years of infestation. The presence of swarming termites or their wings alone is a sure sign that termites are working in a building. Winged termites are often confused with winged ants; however, most species of ants in the house are only nuisances and, except for carpenter ants, they do not damage the wood.

Always contact your local termite exterminators for help with eastern subterranean termite problems.

FAQs

Are subterranean termites present in Florida?

Yes, subterranean termites, including Eastern subterranean termites, have a significant presence in Florida. The state’s warm and humid climate creates ideal conditions for these pests to thrive. They are one of the most common causes of structural damage in homes and buildings across the state.

Should I be concerned about subterranean termites?

Absolutely. Subterranean termites can cause extensive damage to wooden structures, potentially compromising the safety and integrity of your home. Early detection and treatment are crucial to preventing significant damage and costly repairs. Regular inspections and preventative measures are highly recommended.

What is the best treatment for subterranean termites?

The best treatment for subterranean termites depends on the specific infestation. Our professional team uses advanced techniques such as baiting systems and barrier treatments to eliminate termites and protect your property. Our experts will assess your situation and recommend the most effective treatment plan for long-term protection. By understanding the behavior and habitat of Eastern subterranean termites, property owners in Florida can take proactive steps to protect their investments.

Pillbug

Identifying Pillbugs in Florida

Pillbugs, often called ‘roly-polys’, are small crustaceans that thrive in Florida’s humid climate. Pillbugs – up close – can be recognized by their segmented, armored bodies and ability to roll into a ball when threatened, pillbugs play a vital role in the ecosystem by aiding in the decomposition process.

These small creatures are among the many common insects found in Florida. The southern state’s lush, tropical climate makes it a common habitat for many different insect species. But as one of the only crustaceans adapted to live on land, pillbugs are also quite common throughout the United States.

These pests are usually dark gray or brown in color, with a hard, segmented exoskeleton. White pillbugs are most often juveniles or those in the process of molting, but fully matured pillbugs are usually darker in appearance. However, pillbugs can sometimes appear pale or whitish immediately after molting, when they shed their old exoskeleton.

Much like the sowbug, pillbugs aren’t classified as insects, but isopods. Pillbugs and sowbugs are similar-looking pests that are more closely related to shrimp and crayfish than to insects. They are easily recognized by their back, which is made up of seven hard individual plates. Since pillbugs require moisture, they do not survive indoors for more than a few days unless there are very moist or damp conditions.

Due to their similar nature, pillbugs and sowbugs are used interchangeably.

Where in Florida Do Pillbugs Live?

Pillbugs are commonly found throughout Florida, thriving in moist environments. They can be found outdoors under mulch, fallen leaves, and rocks.

Pillbugs are nocturnal and require humid conditions during the day. These crustaceans are generally found in moist soil along with sowbugs, millipedes, and earthworms. Pillbugs may leave their natural habitats at night and crawl about over sidewalks, patios, and foundations. They can become a nuisance as they often invade crawl spaces, damp basements, and first floors of structures at ground level.

How Common Are Pillbugs in Florida?

Pillbugs are quite common in Florida, due to the state’s humidity, greenery and vast marshland. These crustaceans thrive in various environments, including gardens, forests, and urban areas, where they can access moisture and organic matter.

Floridian residents often encounter pillbugs in their yards, decaying compost, and particularly under rocks, logs, and piles of leaves or mulch.

Pillbug populations tend to increase during the warmer months and after heavy rainfall when conditions are more favorable. While they are generally harmless, their prevalence in gardens and around homes makes them a familiar sight for many Floridians.

Are Pillbugs Dangerous?

If you find yourself panic googling “do pillbugs bite?” rest assured – pillbugs do not bite or sting and are not known to pose any threats to humans. They do not contaminate food or spread diseases. Pillbugs These crustaceans are mainly nuisance pests, especially when they venture indoors.

They are capable of feeding on tender plant tissue and occasionally cause considerable damage to garden transplants and seedlings. Pillbugs typically enter buildings through door thresholds, especially homes with sliding glass doors on the ground level.

Seeing a pillbug in the home usually means that there is a large population outdoors. If you need pillbug control across all Florida regions, contact your local Bug Out experts. .

FAQs

What Are Pillbugs And Why Do They Live In Florida?

Pillbugs, commonly known as roly-polies, are small crustaceans from the order Isopoda. Unlike insects, they have a segmented, armored body and can roll into a ball for protection. In Florida, pillbugs thrive in the warm, humid climate, favoring moist environments with plenty of organic matter, such as gardens and leaf litter. They primarily feed on decaying plant material, playing a crucial role in breaking down organic matter and enriching the soil. Their presence benefits local ecosystems, making them a valuable part of Florida’s environment.

What Repels Pillbugs?

Focus on reducing moisture and eliminating their food sources. These creatures thrive in damp environments, so fixing leaks and improving drainage around your home can deter them. Additionally, keeping your yard tidy by removing organic debris, such as leaf litter and mulch, will make the area less inviting. Natural repellents like diatomaceous earth can also be effective; sprinkling it around your garden creates a barrier that pillbugs will avoid. Lastly, using essential oils like peppermint or tea tree oil can help repel these pests when mixed with water and sprayed in areas where they are prevalent.

For a larger infestation, contact your local pest control company to help manage pillbugs in your Florida home or garden.

Why Am I Getting Millipedes in My House?

You may be getting millipedes in your house due to various factors, primarily related to moisture and environment. Florida’s humid climate provides ideal conditions for millipedes, prompting them to seek refuge indoors, especially during heavy rain or high humidity. Address your moisture issues promptly, and if your home has leaks, poor drainage, or decaying organic matter, make sure to fix these issues.

Should I Worry About Pillbugs?

Generally, there is no need to worry about pillbugs. They are harmless creatures that do not pose any direct threat to humans, pets, or plants. Pillbugs primarily feed on decaying organic matter, helping to break it down and enrich the soil. While they may invade homes, particularly in damp areas, their presence is more of a nuisance than a significant concern. They do not bite or sting and are not known to carry diseases. Maintaining a clean environment and addressing moisture issues can effectively manage their presence without the need for drastic measures.

Are “Roly-Polys” and Pillbugs the Same Thing?

Yes, roly-polys and pillbugs refer to the same species. Roly-polys are a common nickname for pillbugs, highlighting their ability to roll into a ball when threatened, a behavior that provides them with protection from predators. Both terms describe these small, segmented crustaceans belonging to the order Isopoda. While the name ‘pillbug’ emphasizes their rounded shape, ‘roly-poly’ captures their unique defensive behavior.

House Cricket

Identifying House Crickets in Florida

House crickets are some of the more common insects across Florida.

House crickets are typically light brown or tan in color with distinctive dark bands across their heads. They grow to about 3/4 to 1 inch in length and have long antennae and powerful hind legs for jumping. You may also notice their prominent wings, though they don’t fly often.

These insects are known for their distinctive, high-pitched chirping sound, which they make by rubbing their wings together, especially at night. They are commonly found indoors in warm, moist areas like basements and kitchens, particularly in Florida’s humid climate.

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.

Where in Florida Do House Crickets Live?

House crickets are commonly found throughout Florida, both indoors and outdoors. They are drawn to warm moist environments, seeking food and shelter within homes and structures as temperatures cool down in the fall.

Indoors, they often inhabit basements, garages, and kitchens, where they can find shelter and warmth. Outdoors, they can be found in gardens, mulch beds, and near vegetation. Florida’s humid climate provides ideal conditions for house crickets to thrive, especially in urban and suburban areas.

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.

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.

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. Their distinctive chirping is a familiar sound in Florida homes, especially during the warmer months.

How Common Are House Crickets in Florida?

House crickets are quite common in Florida due to the state’s warm and humid climate, which provides ideal conditions for them to thrive.

They are frequently found in both residential and commercial areas, particularly indoors in spaces like basements, garages, and kitchens.

Outdoors, they can be found in gardens, near vegetation, or under mulch.

Are House Crickets Dangerous?

House crickets are not dangerous to humans and pose no direct health risks. They do not bite, sting or spread disease, however, they can become a nuisance if they gain entry into a home, damaging clothing, carpets, and areas covered in fabric.

If you have a house cricket infestation contact your local insect exterminators in Florida. Our team at Bug Out is here to help manage your pest problem with expertise and efficiency.

FAQs

What Kind of Crickets Live in Florida?

Several species of crickets live in Florida, including house crickets, field crickets, and camel crickets. House crickets are the most commonly found indoors, with their distinctive chirping and moderate size of about 3/4 to 1 inch. While not common, some people might also spot white crickets, which are often newly molted crickets that haven’t regained their color yet.

Are House Crickets Harmless?

Yes, house crickets are generally harmless to humans. Though they can become a nuisance when crickets in the house chirp, they don’t bite or cause harm. The most common issue with house crickets is their tendency to chew on fabrics and paper. House cricket size varies from 3/4 to 1 inch, and while they do have wings, house crickets rarely fly indoors.

Why Am I Suddenly Finding Crickets in My House?

Crickets in the house are often looking for warmth, moisture, or shelter, especially during seasonal changes. In Florida, crickets might move indoors during cooler weather or after heavy rain. House crickets can easily enter through cracks and gaps. Crickets in house meaning is often linked to seeking refuge from outdoor conditions. Sealing entry points can help prevent future cricket infestations.

Earwig

Identifying Earwigs In Florida

Earwigs are small, elongated insects that can be unsettling to spot, but they are generally harmless to humans. Earwigs are found in warm, humid climates, making them a common insect found in Florida.

Earwigs up close typically have a slender, elongated body that ranges from about ¼ to 1 inch long. Their shape is somewhat flattened, which helps them fit into narrow crevices. Most earwigs are brown to dark brown, with a shiny, smooth surface – though you may also find some white earwigs too. Some may have a reddish tint, but they are generally not brightly colored.

Earwigs owe their name to the superstition that they purposely crawl into the ears of sleeping people and bore into the brain. Even though earwigs prefer moist, dark places, they choose these places for daytime hiding, not at night when people are sleeping. Earwigs are mostly nocturnal, searching for and feeding on a wide variety of insects and plants after dark.

They are more common in the southern and southwestern United States and tend to hibernate during the winter months. Earwigs may seek refuge in homes when conditions outside are too dry, hot, or cold.

Where In Florida Do Earwigs Live?

Earwigs are prevalent throughout Florida, thriving in the state’s warm and humid climate.

The diet of earwigs consists of a wide variety of plant and animal matter, making gardens and landscaped areas the ideal habitat for these insects. Earwigs feed on leaves, flowers, fruits, and fungi, as well as on aphids and larger insects such as flies, captured with their pincer-like cerci.

Day-time hiding places include under logs, rocks, boards, or dense growth of vines or weeds. Around homes, they can be found in moisture-rich environments such as cracks near swimming pool areas, flower bed mulch, underneath outdoor potted plants, and leaf litter. Inside homes, they will congregate in flaps of cardboard boxes and inside kitchens and bathrooms.

How Common Are Earwigs In Florida?

Earwigs are quite common in Florida, particularly due to the state’s warm and humid climate, which provides ideal conditions for their growth and reproduction.

These insects thrive in various environments, including gardens, landscaped areas, and even within homes. Their prevalence increases during the warmer months, especially in late spring and summer, when temperatures and humidity levels rise.

Florida’s climate and abundant vegetation also contribute to a robust earwig population, making them a common sight for residents throughout the state.

Are Earwigs Dangerous?

Earwigs are generally not considered dangerous to humans or pets. Earwigs don’t bite people or spread disease, but they can pinch. Although their pincers are not likely to break the skin, a pinch from an earwig can hurt.

For the most part, earwigs are considered a nuisance pest during spring and summer. In gardens, they can chew irregular holes in leaves and flower blossoms.

Earwigs can enter homes through gaps and cracks of siding and foundations. They can also gain access when homeowners transfer items like potted plants, firewood, or cardboard boxes from outside to inside the home.

If you are dealing with excess earwigs on your property, contact a local pest control professional Bug Out. We help manage insect control in your home!

FAQs

How Do You Get Rid Of Earwigs In Florida?

Focus on reducing moisture and removing organic debris that attracts them. Fix leaks, use dehumidifiers, and seal entry points around your home to prevent them from coming inside.

Clearing away mulch, leaf litter, and decaying plant matter from your garden can also help minimize their habitat. Setting traps, such as rolled-up newspapers, can catch earwigs effectively. Utilizing natural deterrents like diatomaceous earth or essential oils can further help keep them at bay.

For a thorough and highly effective way to manage an earwig infestation, contact your local pest control experts.

Is It Bad To See Earwigs In Your House?

Unless you’re dealing with a full-fledged infestation, seeing a few earwigs in your house isn’t a bad thing. These insects don’t pose health risks and are mostly a harmless nuisance. Keeping your home clean and addressing any moisture issues can help prevent these pests from becoming a recurring problem.

Should You Kill Earwigs?

While harmless, earwigs can become a nuisance if they invade your home or garden, particularly if they damage plants. If you’re comfortable with their presence, you may choose to relocate them outdoors instead of killing them. If their numbers become overwhelming, using traps or natural deterrents is a humane way to manage them. If the infestation is out of hand, contact your local pest professional.

What Makes Earwigs Go Away?

Focus on creating an environment that is less inviting to these insects. Reducing moisture levels is crucial, so fix leaks and use dehumidifiers in damp areas of your home. Keeping your garden tidy by removing organic debris, like mulch and fallen leaves, can eliminate their hiding spots. Sealing entry points around doors and windows can prevent new infestations. Additionally, using traps and natural repellents can encourage earwigs to go away.

Silverfish

Identifying Silverfish In Florida

White silverfish, also known as ‘silver-surfer bugs’ are small, wingless insects with elongated, teardrop-shaped bodies covered in silvery-gray scales. They’re a common insect species in Florida, typically about 1/2 to 1 inch long and move in a wriggling, fish-like motion.

These particular bugs in Florida are commonly found in dark, humid areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. They are nocturnal and often go unnoticed.

Silverfish — often mistaken for a similar bug known as 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.

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.

Where in Florida Do Silverfish Live?

In Florida, silverfish are most often found indoors in areas that provide consistent humidity and slightly cooler temperatures, such as basements, bathrooms, attics, and under sinks. They seek out dark, damp places to avoid high heat, and crave spaces with high moisture levels – typically 72-81 degrees Fahrenheit.

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.

Outside, silverfish may hide in leaf litter, under rocks, or in other damp, shaded areas.

How Common Are Silverfish in Florida?

Silverfish are quite common in Florida, particularly in homes with high humidity levels. Florida’s humid, tropical climate provides ideal conditions for silverfish to flourish year-round, though they may appear more during the damp, cooler months.

Are Silverfish Dangerous?

Silverfish are not dangerous to humans or pets. 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.

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. This can be a little frightening!

While not harmful, a silverfish infestation can cause costly repairs if left unmanaged.

Are you dealing with a silverfish infestation? Contact your local Florida insect removal experts today! At Bug Out, our skilled technicians are dedicated to protecting your home from all types of pests.

FAQs

Are Silverfish Normal in Florida?

Yes, silverfish are quite normal in Florida, where the tropical climate provides a suitable habitat for these pests. Often referred to as ‘silver surfer bugs’ due to their metallic appearance, silverfish can be found in homes, away from direct heat, especially in damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens. While they are not harmful, their presence can be concerning, and it’s essential to manage infestations effectively.

How Do I Get Rid of Silverfish in Florida?

Start by reducing moisture levels in your home, as silverfish thrive in humid environments. Seal cracks and gaps to limit their access, and use dehumidifiers in damp areas. Consider utilizing bait traps or insecticides specifically designed for silverfish. For persistent infestations, contact your local Florida pest control service.

Should You Kill Silverfish?

While silverfish are not harmful, controlling their population is recommended to prevent damage to your belongings, as they feed on paper, fabrics, and starchy materials. However, it’s best to leave the killing of silverfish to a professional pest control team. Our experts can effectively manage infestations and provide long-term solutions to keep your home safe from these pests.

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

First Name*

Last Name*

Email*

Phone*

Street Address*