Wondering what type of bugs you might find in the Northeast? Although it tends to be colder in this region of the United States, there are still plenty of insects and other pests to be aware of. Continue reading to learn more about the most common pests in the area, as well as Northeast pest control tips and recommendations.
Stink Bugs
This brown bug produces a stinky odor when threatened. It’s a very common insect in the Northeast as well as many other areas of the United States. This species seeks shelter inside homes and other buildings during the winter months. If you find this bug in your home, don’t kill it unless you want a stinky smell for hours! Just wait until it crawls near the door and quickly sweep it outside.
Cabbage Worms
Similar to the previous insect, Cabbage Worms are not a friend to your garden. They will destroy any vegetables you are trying to grow (especially cabbage, broccoli, or brussels sprouts). To keep them out, keep your garden free of weeds and debris. Make sure to adequately water and encourage beneficial garden insects. If you can, use row covers to protect plants.
Japanese Beetles
These beetles used to be only located in the Northeast, but are beginning to spread into the west as well. They eat over 300 species of plants, trees, and flowers. They’re a large threat to gardens and most types of plants. Japanese Beetles especially like roses, beans, grapes, and raspberries. Similar to cabbage worms, you should use row covers to protect your plants and keep your yard clear of weeds.
Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs are one of the common New England bugs, but can also be found in many other areas of the United States. These red and black flying insects feed on plants, shrubs, seeds, and trees. Although they typically don’t do much damage to plants, they often invade buildings and yards in mass amounts and can be difficult to get rid of. The best way to prevent these inside your home is to patch up any cracks, holes, and other crevices they can use to come inside.
Termites
These wood destroying insects can cause structural damage to your home in a very short amount of time. Since they act quick, make sure to call pest control as soon as you notice them! One tip to prevent termites and other wood boring insects is to avoid stacking firewood against your home as they can sometimes live inside. It’s also effective to eliminate areas of moisture since they need damp areas to survive. (Aptive does not treat for termites)
Moles and Gophers
Most of us know that moles and gophers are the pesky rodents that live underground and tear up lovely lawns. They destroy grass roots while hunting for earthworms and other yard insects. Overall, there isn’t much difference between the two rodents except for their size. The best way to prevent gophers and moles is to use repellant around your yard (placing castor oil or peppermint oil in their burrows is a natural and human method to repel them). If this doesn’t work, there are poisonous pellets you can place in their burrows to eliminate them.
Other Common Pests
Most other bugs found in the Northeast are common around the world. A few of these include bed bugs, cockroaches, earwigs, various types of ants, mosquitoes, ticks, silverfish, and others.
Northeast Pest Control and Prevention
When it comes to insects or other pests, it’s important to take prevention measures to avoid infestations. To start, investigate your home for any cracks, holes, or other potential entry points for pests. Make sure to seal anything you come across. Additionally, make sure to eliminate any sources of moisture, keep garbage cans clean, and keep the home clean as well. A seasonal pest prevention treatment is an excellent way to avoid infestations (and their expensive costs).
Aptive Environmental has plenty of offices in the Northeast region to help fight any pest problems you may have. With a variety of services from rodent extermination to pantry pest extermination, Aptive has tailored plans for you.
