Common Household Pests – & How to Keep Them at Bay!

Southeast Queensland is a beautiful place to live. Whether you’re on the Sunshine Coast, in Brisbane, or on the Gold Coast, the climate and quality of life here is extremely appealing and the envy of others. Unfortunately, though, humans are not the only ones who love living here, and chances are you will, at some point, find yourself sharing your home with some common household pests.

Just because you can’t see them, doesn’t mean these critters are not there! While they can wreak havoc, it’s not too difficult to identify and stay on top of the problem – as long as you take a proactive approach!

Why Is Pest Control So Important?

Pests don’t just make your home uncomfortable. They can impact human health, animal health, the structural integrity of your home or other property, and the natural ecosystem.

The climate in Southeast Queensland is particularly suitable for several types of pests and the region’s weather fluctuations, especially wet weather, can trigger an increase in pest activity.

The first step to conquering the problem is identifying the common household pests you may be hosting, and then understanding how to eliminate them and prevent them from taking up residence again in the future.

Common Household Pests in Southeast Queensland

1. Cockroaches
   Queensland has more than 400 cockroach species, with the Australian Cockroach being most common (followed by the German, American, and Oriental varieties). Identifiable by its shiny long body, this scurrying insect prefers moist areas but will happily live in dry conditions if necessary. It thrives in Southeast Queensland and spends most of its time feeding and reproducing. 24 eggs are laid at a time, and they lay every couple of months.

   Cockroaches carry disease and their debris can trigger allergies and asthma. While there are over-the-counter baiting solutions, professional pest control is highly recommended to solve the problem effectively.

2. Fleas & Ticks
   Commonly found on outdoor pets (and brought inside on them), fleas and ticks transmit saliva- and blood-borne diseases as well as parasites like tapeworms. They also cause uncomfortable bites.

   Queensland is home to eight common species of fleas and they breed rapidly. They live and feed on warm-blooded animals, birds, and humans. Bites can cause inflammation, itching, and potential secondary infections and anaemia.

   Ticks predominantly feed off animals, including reptiles, and can cause significant illness, paralysis, and death. They don’t prefer feeding on humans but will do so if the opportunity presents itself.

   If not quickly exterminated, these critters quickly multiply and cause extreme distress. They must be professionally exterminated promptly. Additionally, mammalian pets should be given regular preventative treatment against fleas and ticks.

3. Ants
   Ants reproduce quickly and have a lengthy lifespan. They prefer a warm, humid area, and will come into your kitchen looking for food (they also like your pet’s food). Some will even eat plastic, meaning they can consume the coating on your electrical wiring. They may bite and sting.

   Professional pest controllers use chemicals to destroy ants and their nests.

4. Spiders
   From hazardous Red Backs to the harmless Daddy Long Legs, spider infestation can happen very quickly, as they lay many thousands of eggs at a time. Preferring dark, damp corners and hiding places, they inject toxins if they bite and these can be harmful or even fatal to pets and humans. They also leave webs that attract dust and dirt, and with a significant number of people experiencing spider phobias, the comfort and safety of your home require that even the hint of a spider infestation be treated quickly.
5. Termites
   Also called white ants, these insects usually don’t make their presence known until they have caused significant structural damage. Living in large colonies, termites are the most destructive pests in Queensland. They lay thousands of eggs each day and munch on timber. They need a moist, damp environment to survive, will drag mud with them, and can destroy the wooden structure of a home in just three months. This is why regular termite inspections are essential.
6. Bed Bugs
   These creatures are hard to identify. They come out only at night and feed on human and animal blood, leaving bites. They inject an anaesthetic, anticoagulant (anti-clotting) agent in their saliva, so you don’t feel them biting. Each female lays around five eggs per day and these hatch after 12 days. They live in mattresses and travel via suitcases, laundry, bags, and second-hand furniture to find their human or another warm-blooded host. These insects have adapted to many elimination chemicals, so a professional approach is required. If you have bites in the morning or rust-coloured spots on your bedding, call professional exterminators promptly.
7. Rodents
   Rats and mice might be cute, but unless they are your beloved pet, they are unwelcome in your home. They are attracted to your food supply, including pet food. They are common in Queensland and breed very quickly, gestating in just 19 days. They are especially prevalent in areas where food is abundant. They may live in your roof, walls, your under-floor space, garage, and even inside your home. Rodents transmit an array of diseases and can also damage your property. Licensed pest controllers have the best techniques to humanely eliminate rats and mice quickly and effectively.
8. Textile Bugs
   These include carpet beetles and moths. They like dark areas like wardrobes and can literally eat through clothing, linen, upholstery, carpets, curtains, and rugs. They are not easy to identify – but appropriate spray treatments will eliminate the problem.

   Silverfish thrive in damp kitchens and bathrooms. They consume paper and boxes, stored food, and textile. They also spread harmful bacteria.

Other common household pests in southeast Queensland include Flies, Pantry Moths, Mosquitoes, and Wasps. All can (and should) be managed in such a way that it safe for your home and your family, as well as for the local environment. A professional, expert, local pest control company is your best option.

Say Goodbye to Pests with Proactive Pest Solutions

A top Sunshine Coast-based pest control company, Proactive Pest Solutions is proactive about managing common household pests so you don’t need to be! With many years of experience in our industry, we have the expertise and modern techniques to prevent pest infestation from the outset with regular inspections and treatments that are safe for your family (kids and pets included) but lethal for unwanted insects and rodents. We also identify and manage exiting infestations so that you can quickly enjoy the safety and comfort of your home once again.

Learn more about our Pest Control and Termite Control Services.

Are you a commercial entity? We can help you, too! Discover how here.

Call Proactive Pest Solutions for unrivalled Sunshine Coast pest control services now on 1800 979 611 or email hello@proactivepestsolutions.com.au. You may also request a quote via our contact form. We look forward to meeting you.