People living in the southeast will tell you the pests here have no mercy for your home or your peace of mind. In the tiny minds of these bothersome pests, they believe our home is their home, too. It’s not a coincidence that most of our clients have the same pest problem. The comfort of a southern home draws in several creepy-crawlies. We’ve compiled a list of common household pests in the southeast and whether or not they are harmful to you and your family.
Several species of cockroaches reside in the southeast region of the United States, but the most common is the German cockroach. They are usually small, light brown, and have two dark stripes on their back. You could find German cockroaches wherever there is food.
German Cockroach
Field Guide · Southeast
Common household pests in the Southeast, identified
Several pests thrive in the warmth and humidity of southeastern homes, and many look similar enough to cause misidentification. Knowing what you are actually dealing with is the first step toward handling it correctly.
1Disease risk
German Cockroach
IDSmall, light brown with two dark parallel stripes behind the head
WhereKitchens, pantries, and anywhere food is stored or prepared
NoteDoes not bite or sting, but carries bacteria on its body and contaminates surfaces and food. One of the most prolific breeding cockroaches found indoors.
2Stings
Southern Unstriped Scorpion
IDDark brown body, uniformly unstriped, up to 3 inches long
WhereCracks in foundations, gaps around doors and windows, follows prey indoors
NoteThe sting is generally mild — pain and sensation typically resolve within 30 minutes — but stings can cause stronger reactions in sensitive individuals.
3Can bite
Gnats
IDTiny flying insects; size and coloring vary by species, often mistaken for one another
WhereNear light fixtures, uncovered trash, and ripe or decaying fruit and vegetables
NoteBiting species can cause localized itchiness and swelling. Some gnats are capable of spreading disease depending on what surfaces they have contacted before entering the home.
4Low concern
American House Spider
IDBrownish-tan with white markings, roughly the size of a nickel
WhereDark corners, undisturbed areas of basements, garages, and closets where cobwebs accumulate
NoteBites are uncommon and cause only minor pain and swelling. Not considered a threat to human health under normal circumstances.
Waynes has protected Southeast families for 50 years as an EPA Pesticide Environmental Stewardship member. Every little thing matters. A LOT.
Are they harmful?
Though German cockroaches don’t bite or sting, they can still cause harm to humans. They are known to spread bacteria, which can be a threat to human health.Gnats
Gnat is a general term to describe any tiny flying insect. Most people can’t recognize the difference between them all. Clients just know they drive them crazy. Gnats can enter your home through windows, doors, or small cracks, coming in search of food and shelter. They prefer to feed on old food, especially fruits and vegetables. They also stick around light fixtures and trash bins that aren’t properly covered.Are they harmful?
Gnats (depending on the species) can bite and cause itchiness and swelling. Also, depending on what kind of substances they’ve gotten into, they can spread diseases that are harmful to humans.American House Spiders
About 35,000 species of spiders exist in the world. One of the most common species of spiders found in homes in the southeast is the American house spider. American house spiders are brownish-tan with white markings and about the size of a nickel. They hide in dark corners and areas in homes where they build messy cobwebs to catch food.Are they harmful?
Seeing an eight-legged creature in your home staring back at you isn’t a pleasant experience, but they are nothing to be afraid of. American house spiders are not a threat to humans, but they do bite. Their bites cause minimal pain and swelling.Southern Unstriped Scorpions
Southern unstriped scorpions are native to the southeast. They are dark brown and no longer than 3 inches long. A southern unstriped scorpion likely got into your home by following a food source. They enter homes through cracks, doors, and windows.Are they harmful?
The only risk that southern unstriped scorpions pose to humans is a sting. Their stings aren’t very painful, and the sensation only lasts for about 30 minutes. A good way to prevent the invasion of these pests is by maintaining your home and sealing all cracks. An even better way to avoid them is by reaching out to the professionals at Waynes for excellent pest control. Reach us at 1-866-WAYNES1!Related reading: the top 5 scariest bugs in the Southeast.
