Catalog

Comprehensive guide to protecting your space from common pests

Catalog

Comprehensive guide to protecting your space from common pests

Your Guide to Common Pests

Our catalog offers valuable insights into common pests that might invade your home or business. It covers what attracts these pests, how to identify them, and when to seek professional assistance.

Please note, this is not a complete list of all potential pests. If you’re dealing with a pest not mentioned here, don’t hesitate to call us.

Our mission is to help you Eliminate, Defend, and Protect your space from these unwelcome intruders.

Catalog of Pests

Catalog of Pests

Argentine Ants

Small ants that invade in large colonies

Asian Roaches

Fast-flying pests seeking light and moisture

Carpenter Ants

Large wood-destroying ants

Field Mice

Small rodents that seek warmth and food indoors

Fire Ant

Aggressive ants that invade yards

German Roaches

Small roaches seeking food and warmth

Ghost Ants

Tiny ants that form trails in kitchens and bathrooms

Little Black Ants

Ants in long trails looking for food and moisture

Mud Dauber

Slender wasps that build tube-like mud nests

Palmetto Roaches

Large roaches that invade homes for water

Roof Rats

Climbers that nest in attics causing damage to wiring

Silverfish

Silvery insects that damage paper and fabrics

Wasps

Stinging insects that build nests in sheltered areas

Argentine Ants

Argentine Ants

Small ants that invade in large colonies

Small ants that invade in large colonies

Argentine ants love sugary foods, food crumbs, food grease, and debris and can invade homes in large numbers. They, along with other insects, often look for shelter in homes and businesses when it rains, as this disturbs their nests and food sources. They also seek refuge when the weather turns extremely cold or hot.

Small ants that form long trails, especially near food sources.

They can outcompete native ant species and become difficult to control due to their large colonies.

Use ant baits along trails and keep food sealed.

If their numbers are overwhelming, Spartan Pest Control can help eliminate and protect your home from these persistent pests.

Asian Roaches

Asian Roaches

Fast-flying outdoor pests that invade homes in search of light and moisture

Fast-flying outdoor pests that invade homes in search of light and moisture

Asian roaches are attracted to light and can easily enter homes through open windows and doors. They love food crumbs, food grease, and debris. Additionally, these insects often look for shelter in homes and businesses during rainy weather, which disrupts their habitats and food sources. They also seek refuge when it gets extremely cold or hot outside.

Similar in appearance to German roaches but are excellent fliers and active during the day.

They can quickly become a nuisance by invading living spaces in large numbers.

Use yellow bug lights outdoors and keep screens on windows and doors.

If DIY methods aren’t keeping them at bay, Spartan Pest Control can help eliminate these pests.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter Ants

Large wood-destroying ants that invade homes seeking moisture and damp wood

Large wood-destroying ants that invade homes seeking moisture and damp wood

Carpenter ants are drawn to damp or rotting wood, where they like to build their nests. They also tend to enter homes and businesses when it rains, as their nests and food sources get disturbed as they are attracted to food crumbs, food grease, and debris. Additionally, when the weather turns too cold or extremely hot, they look for shelter indoors.

Larger than most ants, usually black or red, and often seen near windows, doors, or wood structures.

They can cause significant structural damage by hollowing out wood to build their nests.

Replace damaged wood and eliminate sources of moisture.

If you hear rustling in walls or see wood shavings, it’s time to call. Our Spartan Defense will ensure your home remains strong and secure.

Field Mice

Field Mice

Small rodents that seek warmth and food indoors, often causing damage and attracting snakes

Small rodents that seek warmth and food indoors, often causing damage and attracting snakes

Field mice are drawn to warmth, food such as birdseed and seeds, and shelter, often making their way into homes during the colder months.

Small, with grey or brown fur and a pointed nose, these rodents can be found in kitchens, attics, or basements.

They can chew through wires, contaminate food, and spread diseases. If there is a significant presence of mice in an area, it can increase the likelihood of snakes being drawn to that location in search of prey.

Seal entry points and set traps in areas where they’re active.

If you see droppings or hear scratching noises, it’s time for professional help. Our Spartan Defense ensures your home is rodent-free.

Fire Ants

Fire Ants

Aggressive ants often invade yards and outdoor spaces

Aggressive ants often invade yards and outdoor spaces

Fire ants prefer warm, sunny areas with loose, dry soil, making lawns, gardens, and playgrounds ideal. They search for food sources like sweets, proteins, and oils, often found in outdoor trash, pet food, and food crumbs or grease. After heavy rain, they may invade homes as their nests and food sources are disturbed, while extreme heat or cold drives them indoors to seek shelter.

Fire ants are small, reddish-brown insects, measuring about 1/8 to 1/4 inch in length. They have a distinctive two-segmented waist and a stinger that can be seen when they are disturbed. Unlike other ant species, fire ants tend to be aggressive and will swarm if their nest is threatened.

Fire ants can pose several risks. Their painful stings can cause allergic reactions, and they are known to bite and sting simultaneously, creating a burning sensation. They can also damage gardens and lawns, disrupting ecosystems and harming beneficial insects.

To manage a fire ant problem, you can create a bait using a mixture of sugar, water, and a small amount of boric acid. Place the bait near their mounds. This method encourages ants to take the bait back to the colony, helping to eliminate the nest over time. However, be cautious if you have pets or children, as boric acid can be harmful if ingested.

If the infestation is severe, or if you’re experiencing repeated fire ant problems, it’s best to call Spartan Pest Control. Our team can provide effective, targeted treatments that eliminate fire ants safely and efficiently, protecting your home and family from their harmful effects.

German Roaches

German Roaches

Small, fast-moving roaches that invade homes seeking food, warmth, and moisture

Small, fast-moving roaches that invade homes seeking food, warmth, and moisture

German roaches are attracted to food crumbs, grease, debris, and moisture, commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms. They also enter homes and businesses when rain disturbs their nests and food sources, or when the weather turns too cold or hot, seeking shelter where they can.

Small, light brown with two dark stripes on their backs, these roaches are fast movers and typically seen at night.

They multiply rapidly, contaminate food, and can trigger allergies and asthma.

Keep areas clean and dry, and use roach baits in areas where you’ve seen them.

If you spot more than a few roaches, it’s time to call. Roach infestations can escalate quickly, and our Spartan Defense will ensure your home is protected.

Ghost Ants

Ghost Ants

Tiny ants that invade homes, forming trails in kitchens and bathrooms

Tiny ants that invade homes, forming trails in kitchens and bathrooms

Ghost ants are attracted to sweets and moisture, often entering homes in search of food and water. They are especially drawn to food crumbs, grease, and debris. They may invade homes and businesses when rain disrupts their nests or during extreme temperatures, seeking shelter indoors.

Tiny, with a dark head and pale body, they are often found in kitchens and bathrooms.

Ghost ants can contaminate food and are challenging to eliminate due to their small size and fast movement.

Clean up spills immediately and use bait traps to target the colony.

If you notice trails of ants or persistent sightings, our expert team can protect your home from these tiny invaders.

Little Black Ants

Little Black Ants

Ants in kitchens and bathrooms, looking for food and moisture

Ants in kitchens and bathrooms, looking for food and moisture

Little black ants are attracted to sugary substances, proteins, greasy foods, and debris. They often invade kitchens and pantries, especially when the weather changes, as they seek shelter from rain or extreme temperatures. Heavy rainfall can disturb their nests in trees and other natural habitats, driving them indoors in search of food and a safe place to stay.

These ants are small, measuring approximately 1.5 to 2.5 millimeters in size, similar to fire ants. They are black or dark brown and have a smooth, shiny appearance. Little black ants also possess a narrow waist and six legs, making them easy to recognize when they form trails in your home or business.

While little black ants are generally harmless, their ability to migrate and invade in the thousands, or even hundreds of thousands, can lead to significant infestations. They can contaminate food sources, making it essential to manage their presence quickly to prevent an overwhelming situation.

To combat little black ants, try creating a simple bait using a mixture of sugar and boric acid. Place small amounts of the bait in areas where you’ve noticed ant activity. This will attract the ants, allowing them to carry the bait back to their nest, ultimately helping to reduce their population.

If the ant problem persists despite your DIY efforts, or if you notice large colonies forming, it’s time to call Spartan Pest Control. Our expert team can assess the situation and implement effective treatments to eliminate the infestation and prevent future invasions.

Mud Dauber

Mud Dauber

Slender wasps that build tube-like mud nests on walls and eaves. Though they belong to the wasp family, they are generally harmless to humans and are often considered beneficial because they capture insects like spiders and caterpillars

Slender wasps that build tube-like mud nests on walls and eaves. Though they belong to the wasp family, they are generally harmless to humans and are often considered beneficial because they capture insects like spiders and caterpillars

Mud daubers are drawn to areas with plenty of mud or moist dirt, which they use to build their nests. They also prefer sheltered spaces, such as under eaves, in attics, or near garages, where their nests are protected from weather and predators.

Long, narrow bodies, often black or metallic in color, and their distinctive mud nests, which look like small tubes or organ pipes attached to walls, eaves, or ceilings.

Although mud daubers are generally non-aggressive and rarely sting, their nests can become unsightly, especially when they accumulate around homes or businesses. Additionally, the presence of other wasp species can be mistakenly linked to mud daubers, causing unnecessary alarm.

To discourage mud daubers from building nests, keep outdoor areas clean and dry, sealing any cracks or crevices where they might build. You can also knock down old nests using a broom or hose, but do so carefully to avoid disturbing any wasps still in the area.

If mud dauber nests become excessive or you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with harmless mud daubers or more aggressive wasps, it’s time to call Spartan Pest Control.

Palmetto Roaches

Palmetto Roaches

Large outdoor roaches that invade homes for water

Large outdoor roaches that invade homes for water

Palmetto roaches are attracted to decaying plants, damp areas, and outdoor lights. They are also drawn to food crumbs, food grease, and debris. During rainy weather, they seek entry into homes and businesses, disrupting their habitats. In extreme cold or heat, they look for indoor shelter for protection.

Also known as American cockroaches, they are large, reddish-brown with a distinctive yellowish figure-eight pattern on their heads.

They can spread disease and produce a foul odor when in large numbers.

Seal cracks in walls and doors, and reduce moisture around your home.

If you see them indoors frequently, especially during the day, our team will eliminate and protect your home from future infestations.

Roof Rats

Roof Rats

Climbers that nest in attics causing damage to wiring

Climbers that nest in attics causing damage to wiring

Roof rats are drawn to bird food, seeds, fruits, nuts, and food scraps, commonly found in trees, attics, and garages.

Sleek, with a long tail and dark fur, these rats are excellent climbers and often nest in high places.

They can cause extensive damage by gnawing on wires and structures, and they carry diseases.

Trim tree branches away from your home and use snap traps in attics.

If you hear noises in the attic or see droppings, our team can eliminate and protect your home from these dangerous pests.

Silverfish

Silverfish

Silvery insects that damage paper and fabrics

Silvery insects that damage paper and fabrics

Silverfish are drawn to damp, dark areas like basements, bathrooms, and attics, as well as materials like starch, glue, cardboard, and paper. They often invade homes and businesses during rainy weather, which disrupts their habitat, or when temperatures become too cold or hot in search of shelter.

Silvery-grey, with a teardrop shape, long antennae, and fish-like appearance, these pests move quickly and prefer hiding in crevices.

They can damage books, wallpaper, and clothing by feeding on starchy materials.

Reduce humidity and use sticky traps in areas where they are seen.

If you notice significant damage or frequent sightings, our team can protect your home from further infestation.

Wasps

Wasps

Stinging insects that build nests in sheltered areas

Stinging insects that build nests in sheltered areas

Wasps are drawn to sweet foods and proteins, so you often find them around outdoor eating areas or garbage bins. However, they are most attracted to the shelter your home provides, especially under the eaves, where they are safe from predators and weather.

Slender with a narrow waist, wasps can be yellow and black or brown, depending on the species.

Their stings are painful and can be dangerous for those who are allergic.

Keep food covered outdoors and remove any small nests you can safely reach.

If you find a large nest or experience frequent wasp activity, our Spartan Defense will protect your space from these aggressive insects.

FAQ

German, palmetto, and Asian roaches are frequent intruders in homes, often attracted by moisture and food sources.

At Spartan Pest Control, we don’t just eliminate pests; we focus on preventing their return. Our treatments are designed to create a protective barrier around your home or business, but we also believe in educating our customers. We provide tips and guidance on maintaining a pest-free environment, such as keeping vegetation trimmed, sealing entry points, and maintaining cleanliness. By working together, we can enhance the effectiveness of our treatments and ensure long-term protection for your home or business.

In-wall pest control tubes offer peace of mind, but they aren’t the most effective way to eliminate pests. Water-based treatments can risk mold developing inside the walls, while powder-based chemicals often clog the small holes in the pipes.

These systems aren’t a reliable solution for most infestations because the problem is usually inside the home, not just in the walls. Only a small number of homes are infested so badly that pests also live within the walls.

For the best protection, it’s better to use a more effective pest control method.

Spartan Pest Control stands out due to our personalized, relationship-driven approach. Unlike larger companies that may treat you like just another number, we take the time to get to know our customers, understand their unique needs, and provide tailored solutions. Our commitment to quality, integrity, and customer service is inspired by the values of the ancient Spartans—strength, discipline, and trust. We also prioritize safety, ensuring that our treatments are effective yet safe for families, pets, and the environment. At Spartan, you’re not just a client; you’re part of the Spartan family.

Trimming bushes and trees before they make contact with your home helps prevent pests from using them as a bridge to enter your space. Overgrown branches provide easy access for insects, rodents, and other critters to invade your home. Regular trimming helps eliminate this entry point, keeping your property better protected from unwanted pests.

We’re excited to be working towards the credentials and accreditations needed to add termite control, mosquito control, and wildlife trapping to our services. Stay tuned for these new offerings!

FAQ

German, palmetto, and Asian roaches are frequent intruders in homes, often attracted by moisture and food sources.

At Spartan Pest Control, we don’t just eliminate pests; we focus on preventing their return. Our treatments are designed to create a protective barrier around your home or business, but we also believe in educating our customers. We provide tips and guidance on maintaining a pest-free environment, such as keeping vegetation trimmed, sealing entry points, and maintaining cleanliness. By working together, we can enhance the effectiveness of our treatments and ensure long-term protection for your home or business.

In-wall pest control pipes offer peace of mind, but they aren’t the most effective way to eliminate pests. Water-based treatments can risk mold developing inside the walls, while powder-based chemicals often clog the small holes in the pipes.

These systems aren’t a reliable solution for most infestations because the problem is usually inside the home, not just in the walls. Only a small number of homes are infested so badly that pests also live within the walls.

For the best protection, it’s better to use a more effective pest control method.

Spartan Pest Control stands out due to our personalized, relationship-driven approach. Unlike larger companies that may treat you like just another number, we take the time to get to know our customers, understand their unique needs, and provide tailored solutions. Our commitment to quality, integrity, and customer service is inspired by the values of the ancient Spartans—strength, discipline, and trust. We also prioritize safety, ensuring that our treatments are effective yet safe for families, pets, and the environment. At Spartan, you’re not just a client; you’re part of the Spartan family.

Trimming bushes and trees before they make contact with your home helps prevent pests from using them as a bridge to enter your space. Overgrown branches provide easy access for insects, rodents, and other critters to invade your home. Regular trimming helps eliminate this entry point, keeping your property better protected from unwanted pests.

We’re excited to be working towards the credentials and accreditations needed to add termite control, mosquito control, and wildlife trapping to our services. Stay tuned for these new offerings!