Pest Identification

Ants come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors in Western Washington. Two of the most common species we see in our region are odorous house ants and carpenter ants.

There are many different kinds of rodents present in the Pacific Northwest. The most common we tend to find are rats and mice. There are two types of rats that are found in Washington State: the Roof Rat (rattus rattus) and the Norway Rat (rattus norvegicus).

Termites are one of the most damaging structural pests in the Northwest. There are two common species of termites in Washington: the Pacific Dampwood Termite and the Western Subterranean Termite. Both can cause substantial damage to a structure.

In the Pacific Northwest, there are four cockroach species that may be encountered in structures. Each of these species prefers different areas in which to live and hide. Because various combinations of species can be encountered at the same time, it is essential to accurately identify the species before starting control methods. The American Cockroach, German Cockroach, Brown-banded Cockroach, and Oriental Cockroach can all be found infesting homes and businesses in our region.

Stinging insects come in many shapes and sizes here in the Pacific Northwest; most are beneficial, but some can be dangerous. The following is a list of beneficial and dangerous stinging insects, and some info about them.

There are numerous species of spiders found throughout Western Washington. While most are relatively harmless, some are quite venomous. How the venom from a spider bite affects an individual will largely depend on multiple factors, such as age of the victim, general health, and sensitivity.

Bed bugs, or cimex lectularis, are small parasites ranging in size from poppy seeds to apple seeds (adults are 3/16 inch long). They are flat, oval, reddish-brown in color, and wingless. Bed bugs undergo a gradual metamorphosis with egg, nymph, and adult stages.

In the Puget Sound region, the two most common nuisance bird species we deal with are Starlings and Pigeons. Though different in appearance, both of these species can be quite destructive and exceptionally messy. Their droppings can be seen on the side of buildings, frequently in areas where people travel or congregate.