Living in Spokane is wonderful, but it’s no secret that the area attracts its fair share of pesky bugs. Whether you’re enjoying the beautiful outdoors or cozying up at home, the last thing you want is uninvited creepy-crawlies ruining your peace. To help you stay prepared, we’ve put together a list of the most common bugs you might encounter around Spokane and some easy ways to keep them out.
1. Spiders: Wolf Spiders, Yellow Sac Spiders, and Hobo Spiders
Spiders are a familiar sight in Spokane homes, especially in basements, garages, and other dark, quiet areas. Seeing a spider might make your skin crawl, but most species here are harmless. The wolf spider, yellow sac spider, and hobo spider are the most common types you’ll come across.
While spiders usually prefer to keep to themselves, they can give you a fright. Hobo spiders were once thought to be highly venomous, but recent research shows their bites are less harmful than we originally believed. Still, if you find one hanging out in your living room, it’s best to safely remove it.
Prevention tips:
- Keep clutter to a minimum, especially in storage areas.
- Seal cracks and gaps around windows and doors.
- Use insect-repellent lighting outdoors to discourage insects that attract spiders.
2. Ants: Odorous House Ants and Carpenter Ants
If you’ve ever found a trail of ants marching through your kitchen, you know how stubborn these tiny invaders can be. Odorous house ants are drawn to sweet foods, and carpenter ants love to chew through wood to build their nests, which can cause damage to your home’s structure.
Ants are social insects, so spotting a few usually means more are hiding nearby. Regular cleaning and sealing entry points are your best defenses against these determined little guys.
Prevention tips:
- Wipe down countertops and clean up spills immediately.
- Store food in sealed containers.
- Trim back vegetation touching the house, as ants can use it as a bridge indoors.
3. Cockroaches: German and American Cockroaches
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Cockroaches are known for their resilience, but that doesn’t make them any less unsettling when you see one dart across your kitchen floor. In Spokane, German and American cockroaches are the most common. These bugs thrive in moist environments like kitchens and bathrooms, and they can carry bacteria and trigger allergies.
Finding cockroach droppings or egg casings is a surefire sign you have an infestation. It’s best to act quickly, as these critters multiply fast and are tough to get rid of on your own.
Prevention tips:
- Repair any water leaks to eliminate moisture sources.
- Keep food areas clean and free of crumbs.
- Use caulk to seal gaps around pipes and baseboards.
4. Wasps and Hornets
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Nothing ruins a sunny barbecue like a swarm of wasps or hornets. These stinging insects become more active during the warmer months and can be aggressive when disturbed. They build nests in trees, attics, and under eaves. If you spot a nest, it’s best to call a professional rather than trying to remove it yourself.
Prevention tips:
- Check your home’s exterior regularly for early signs of nests.
- Avoid leaving sweet drinks or food exposed outside.
- Keep trash bins closed and away from the house.
5. Boxelder Bugs and Stink Bugs
Boxelder bugs and stink bugs are fall favorites—unfortunately, not in a good way! As the weather cools, they start looking for warm spots to overwinter, often ending up inside your home. While they don’t cause damage, they can be a nuisance and release a foul odor if crushed.
Prevention tips:
- Seal up cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and siding.
- Remove vegetation and leaf piles close to the house.
- Use screens on vents and chimneys to block their entry points.
How Alta Pest Control Can Help
We know bugs can be a real headache, but that’s where we come in. At Alta Pest Control, we understand the unique challenges Spokane homeowners face when it comes to dealing with these unwelcome visitors. Our team uses child- and pet-friendly methods to target and eliminate these pests, ensuring your home stays comfortable and bug-free all year long.
If bugs are bugging you, give us a call! We’re happy to offer solutions tailored to your needs so you can enjoy your home without worry. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our services. With our personalized pest control plans and thousands of 5-star reviews, you can trust Alta Pest Control to keep your Spokane home bug-free!
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