There are a wide abundance of household pests invading homes in New Mexico. No matter what part of the state you live in, you have more than likely encountered your share of six and eight legged creepy crawlers. Since the 1970s, the New Mexico State University has published a comprehensive of common occurring insects in the state. The criteria used to determine which “bugs” would be included in the list includes their population, impact on the state’s economy and

Here are 5 of the most common pests found in New Mexico homes. Use this guide to determine if you have a serious insect problem that requires the immediate attention of a professional exterminator.

Ants (i.e., carpenter, fire, harvester, etc.)

Ants are one of the more prevalent types of pests found in home through the state. Ants common to the state that are known to cause the most structural damage to homes and arm to people include carpenter ants, fire ants and harvester ants. Carpenter ants are of particular concern as they are often mistaken for termites, another pest prevalent in New Mexico but can also cause significant structural damage to your home.

Cockroaches (i.e., American, German)

The cockroach is a well-known winged pest that is identified by a flat body and spiny legs. The American cockroach, which typically grows to about 1.2 inches or more in length, and the German cockroach that grows to 0.4 inches, are the most common species of cockroach found in New Mexico. When found inside the home, cockroaches invade your kitchen, bathroom and any area with unsecured food or trash. Other species commonly found in New Mexico include the brown-banded and Oriental cockroaches.

Fleas

Fleas grow to a length of about 1/5th of an inch and are known for their strong legs, which they use to jump from person to person. Fleas invades yards and can also be found in your home’s bedding and floor coverings such as carpeting. Fleas are a blood sucking insect that can transmit disease from host to host, such as the plague.

Silverfish

Silverfish have a carrot shaped appearance, growing to approximately 0.2 or 1/5th of an inch. This pest eats substances that contain starch, such as paper and fabric. Within the home you can find silverfish around books and in your kitchen and bathroom sinks.

Termites

Termites are one of the most destructive insects known to New Mexican residents. The insect invades wood, much like carpenter ants, and are more likely to cause long-term, permanent structural damage to your home. Termites can be distinguished from carpenter ants as their bodies are an off-white color. The discovery of termites in the home requires immediate attention and eradication in order to prevent further damage to your home’s foundation, walls and other areas of your home containing wood and wood-like products.

For immediate exterminator help, call Preventive Pest Control today.