You see a creepy bug skittering across your kitchen floor. Do you smash it or let it be? Deciding if a bug is a pest that needs an exterminator or a harmless pal can be tricky. Here’s what you need to know about common household bugs and when to take action against them.

Assess Ants Carefully

Not all ants need an exterminator. Tiny sugar ants that love your kitchen are nuisance pests, but ants marching in lines inside could signal a larger colony that requires pest control. Carpenter ants burrowing in your woodwork mean major damage. Be sure to identify the type of ant and call an exterminator if they’re invading your home or damaging structures.

Show Spiders Some Mercy

According to Forbes, the spider is the number-one most common pest in the country, but most spiders are harmless helpers. Jumping spiders eat other insects like flies and mosquitoes. Cobweb spiders catch pests in corners. Even the scary looking wolf spider runs from humans and is unlikely to bite. Of course, beware of black widows and brown recluses, especially in undisturbed areas like attics or woodpiles, but otherwise, spare the spider–it’s keeping worse pests at bay.

Declare War on Roaches

No one wants to see a cockroach skittering through the house. Healthline reports that these pests carry bacteria as they crawl around your food surfaces and plumbing. Getting rid of roaches usually requires an exterminator. They hide in tiny crevices and reproduce rapidly. Experienced exterminators know how to eliminate roaches and stop them from coming back. Don’t wait if you spot roaches–get professional pest control right away.

Give Stink Bugs the Boot

Stink bugs release a foul odor and can swarm in large numbers. They don’t pose a hazard to human health, but they do wander indoors and damage fruits and vegetables in gardens. It’s nearly impossible to exclude them from your home since they’re strong fliers. If stink bugs become a nuisance, make the call to an exterminator. They can spray pesticides and seal entry points to get rid of an infestation.

Leave Daddy Long Legs Alone

Daddy long legs spiders look menacing with their large bodies and spindly legs, but they’re one of the most harmless bugs around. They don’t have fangs strong enough to pierce human skin, and they don’t spin webs since they hunt other insects, according to the Natural History Museum. Daddy long legs are more likely to run and hide from humans. As creepy as they look, you can safely leave them be. They don’t need any attention from an exterminator.

Give Pantry Pests the Boot

Munching sounds coming from your pantry are bad news. Grains, flours, pastas, and more can become infested with tiny insect pantry pests. Products get contaminated with eggs, larvae, cocoons, and waste. Getting rid of pantry pests requires thorough cleaning and removing or freezing infested foods. An exterminator can also treat your home with pesticides and help you pest-proof your pantry to prevent future problems. Don’t take chances with pests around food.

Be Wary of Bed Bugs

Bed bug infestations are on the rise, and they’re difficult to control. Sneaky bed bugs hide in mattresses and bed frames, coming out at night to bite and feed. The itchy bites appear in lines on your skin. If you suspect bed bugs, call for professional pest control right away. Left untreated, populations grow rapidly. Experienced exterminators have the tools to inspect, treat, and eliminate bed bugs.

Give Stinging Pests Special Attention

Insects like wasps, hornets, and bees require urgent attention if they build nests close to your home. Their stings can cause life-threatening allergic reactions. Get the nest removed as soon as you notice it. Professional exterminators have protective gear to remove nests safely. They also know how to prevent new colonies from forming. Stinging pests too close to your home always warrant a call.

Dealing with household pests can be frustrating. The wrong move can make them spread. When faced with an unknown or worsening bug problem, don’t take chances. Get expert help from qualified exterminators. They identify pests, treat infestations safely, and take steps to keep pests from coming back. Knowing when to call brings peace of mind that pests large and small are handled correctly. If you're experiencing pest issues or you want to ensure you don't, reach out to us at Delta Pest Services for expert pest control services.