Florida is known for its beautiful weather and sunny beaches, but it also has plenty of pests. From mosquitoes to cockroaches to rats and even snakes, the Sunshine State is home to a variety of pests that can cause significant damage to your property. Knowing the most common pests found in Fort Myers, Florida, as well as how to control them, can help you protect your home or business from destruction.
Identifying and Controlling the Most Common Pests in Fort Myers, Florida
Did you know that Florida has more than 12,500 species of insects? But now, let’s take a look at the most common ones found in Fort Myers, Florida.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are one of the most annoying and dangerous pests in Fort Myers. These flying insects carry diseases like the West Nile virus, Zika virus, and malaria, so it’s important to take steps to prevent them from entering your home or business. The best way to get rid of mosquitoes is by making sure that all standing water on your property is eliminated because this will attract mosquitoes.
Ants (including fire ants)
Ants are another common pests in Fort Myers, Florida, that can be a nuisance if left untreated. While most ant species are harmless, there are some species, such as fire ants, that can cause serious harm if they bite you or a pet. The best way to get rid of ants is by sprinkling boric acid around the entry points of your home or business. You may also need to call a professional exterminator if the infestation is severe.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are one of the most despised pests in Fort Myers, Florida, due to their ability to spread disease through their droppings and saliva. Cockroaches can enter homes through small cracks in walls or under doorways and multiply quickly if not controlled promptly. To get rid of cockroaches, you should use caulk around any potential entry points in your home or business, such as windowsills or door frames where cockroaches could be entering from outside.
Termites
Termites are a serious problem in Fort Myers, especially in areas with a lot of moisture. These insects can cause significant damage to homes and buildings, often leading to expensive repairs. If you suspect you have a termite infestation, it’s important to contact a pest control professional right away. They can help identify the source of the problem and offer solutions to eliminate the pests.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are small, flat insects that feed on human blood. They can be found in mattresses, upholstered furniture, behind baseboards, and even inside electrical outlets. Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eliminate once they have established a foothold in your home or business. To prevent an infestation, it is important to inspect all second-hand furniture before bringing it into your home or office.
Ticks
Ticks are small arachnids that feed on the blood of their hosts – while ticks are most commonly found outdoors in Fort Myers, they can also be brought indoors by pets and humans alike. Tick bites can cause serious illness if left untreated, so it is important to check yourself and your pets for ticks after spending time outside.
Spiders (including Brown Recluse and Black Widow)
Brown recluse spiders are mostly found in dark areas such as basements and attics, while black widow spiders prefer warm climates like Florida’s. Both species possess venomous bites that can cause serious injury or even death if not treated properly. To avoid these dangerous spiders, keep an eye out for webs around windowsills and other crevices inside your home or business. Additionally, inspect any boxes or bags before bringing them into your living space.
Wasps
Wasps build their nests near homes and businesses where they have access to food, such as garbage cans or outdoor eating areas. Wasps become more active during warmer months when they can find food sources easily, but their nests can remain active throughout the year if not removed properly by a pest control professional.
Rats and Mice
Rats and mice tend to thrive near people since they have easy access to food sources such as trash cans or kitchen pantries. These pests carry many diseases, so it is important to take precautions against them by sealing any potential entry points around your property with caulk or steel wool as well as setting traps if necessary.
Rodents
Rodents like rats and mice can also be a problem in Fort Myers, Florida, especially in older homes or buildings. These pests can cause significant damage to structures, and they can also carry diseases. To control rodent infestations, it’s important to keep your home clean and free of clutter, seal any entry points, and use traps or bait stations to eliminate the pests.
Squirrels
Squirrels can damage your property by chewing through wires and insulation or by digging up your garden. To keep squirrels away from your property, be sure to keep all food sources sealed tightly and remove any potential hiding places, such as piles of leaves or logs. If you have a bird feeder on your property, it’s best to take it down during periods when squirrel activity increases.
Raccoons
Raccoons are another common pest in Fort Myers, Florida. They often make their homes in attics or garages, where they can cause significant damage if left unchecked. To keep raccoons away from your home, ensure all possible entry points are sealed off with hardware cloth or caulk. You should also avoid leaving pet food outside as this can attract raccoons looking for an easy meal.
Snakes and Lizards
Snakes and lizards are common throughout Fort Myers, Florida, due to both its tropical climate and diverse ecosystems. Although some species of snakes may be harmless, others may be venomous – making it important for homeowners to exercise caution when dealing with these creatures.
Also, many of these species benefit the ecosystem and can help control pest populations, but some species can pose a danger to humans or pets. If you encounter a snake or lizard in your home or yard, it is important to contact a licensed wildlife removal professional to remove the animal safely and humanely.
Beetles
Beetles come in many shapes, sizes, and colors – all of which can cause damage when discovered indoors. These small, oval-shaped beetles are often found in homes and can damage carpets, clothing, and other fabrics. Beetles also enter homes through cracks in walls, windowsills, or door frames – making it important for homeowners to keep an eye out for these potential entry points. It’s also important to keep your home clean and free of debris, vacuum regularly, and store clothing and other fabrics in airtight containers.
Conclusion
Pests can cause significant damage not only to your property but also to your health if left unchecked for too long. Knowing which pests are common in Fort Myers, Florida, and how best to control them will help you keep these unwanted guests away from your home or business for good.
The cost of pest control in Fort Myers, Florida, can vary depending on the type of pest and the severity of the infestation. It’s important to get a quote from a licensed pest control professional before making any decisions on pest control services.
So, if you’re having trouble controlling pests on your own, consider hiring a professional pest control service like Florida Solutions Pest Control for residential and commercial pest control services in Florida, which specializes in dealing with these pesky intruders! Contact us today at 239-291-2234 for more information about our services.
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