Bed bugs, cockroaches, and carpet beetles can all be very problematic pests when they make their way into a person’s home. Knowing the difference between each of these pests can make it a lot easier to know how to treat the problem when faced with one.
Bed bugs, cockroaches, and carpet beetles can all be very problematic pests when they make their way into a person’s home. Knowing the difference between each of these pests can make it a lot easier to know how to treat the problem when faced with one. If you want to know which of the three has made its way into your home, here is some information about each pest.
Bed Bugs - These little creatures have become a major issue in this country again in recent years. Why? Well, one thought is that with all the news of the dangers of some pesticides, some effective treatments are no longer used. And while there are some effective treatments, some newer, better for the environment, versions of pesticides may not be as effective at killing off some species of bugs, including bed bugs. As a result more homes, hotels, college dorms rooms and other establishments are finding the parasites in their living spaces and asking "how do you get bed bugs."
Bed bugs, which are reddish brown, do look similar to some of the smaller varieties of cockroaches, with segmented bodies and occasional black markings. However, bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed and have short, thick antennae. The immature bed bugs are slightly lighter in color but still maintain the same general shape – a wide body that is very thin.
Bed bug control is a very difficult process and should not be attempted on one’s own. Once a population is allowed to expand, it can quickly get out of control and the bugs can hitch a ride in bags, purses, and other dark spots to be carried into other homes and businesses. It is always advised that one call in the professionals. If you are unsure who to call, look for listings for pest or termite control companies.
Cockroaches - These very common bugs have been a nuisance for a long time. Though they do not carry disease or feed on human hosts, they do choose to feast on many human foods, leaving excrement in their wakes. The feces left behind can contaminate the food. They are about the same color as bed bugs, but vary substantially based on the particular breed of cockroach one happens upon. They will have long, thin antennae, as long as or longer than their bodies. The abdomen curves around at the back to include a small tail-like structure.
Though some people have been able to get rid of cockroaches on their own, this is another difficult insect to exterminate because they tend to hide in difficult to reach spaces, out of sight, and in the dark. West Palm Beach pest control company Gulfstream Environmental Services recommends that homeowners clean out areas of standing water and avoid excess clutter if they hope to avoid cockroach infestation.
Carpet Beetles - At quick glance, a carpet beetle might appear to be a form of cockroach, but they are actually shaped and colored quite differently. The immature bugs have a ring coarse hair in a ring around their bodies. They are light brown or whitish in color, but as they grow they take on an oval shape, with very small antenna. Some carpet beetles are black in color, while others will have unusual markings that can be reddish, white, black or brown. They are generally about 1/5” long. Because carpet beetles find their way into the home through cracks and crevices it is a good idea to have a West Palm Beach pest control company inspect the home and yard for areas that can be repaired in order to avoid future infestations.
