Common Pests in Newport News, VA

Newport News, VA, is a beautiful city full of rich history and appealing neighborhoods. If you live here, you likely love the area. However, the region’s weather and humidity make it welcoming not just to people but also to unwanted visitors: pests.

Knowing what to look for, when to look for it, and how to identify these invaders is the first step toward keeping your home pest-free and protected. Don’t be discouraged by ants marching across your counters or bed bugs hiding in your mattress. We are here to help! Learn about the most common bugs in Virginia:

Ants in Virginia Homes

Ants are the most common bugs to appear in Virginia homes. They might seem harmless and tiny to the eye, but they’re no joke. Large colonies can contaminate food and be extremely difficult to get rid of once they have established themselves in your home.

Beyond your kitchen or bathroom, where most sightings happen, they can also chew electrical wires, create unpleasant odors, and even cause structural damage—especially when dealing with carpenter ants. In order to keep ants out of your home, seal every food package tightly and clean regularly.

Carpenter Ants and How To Spot Them

Unfortunately, this species of ant is incredibly common in Newport News, VA. Unlike termites, they don’t chew on wood but tunnel through it, looking to create nests. They typically appear black, reddish, or brown and are larger than other common ants. If you suspect carpenter ants, a professional visit is crucial.

Termites in Virginia and Warning Signs to Watch For

Termites are arguably the most feared pests because they are hard to spot and can cause significant damage if not addressed quickly. They cause billions of dollars of damage across the country, and many homeowners don’t realize their house is infested until the damage is significant. Reduce moisture by fixing any broken pipes, and keep mulch away from your home’s walls to reduce the likelihood of termites entering your home.

Look for white or light-brown insects with straight antennae and wings. If you notice mud tubes on your foundation, wood that sounds hollow when tapped, or discarded little wings near wood, it’s time to call Accel Pest and Termite Control.

Mice, Rats, and What Attracts Them Indoors

Just like termites and carpenter ants, rodents can put your home’s structure at risk if not addressed. No one wants rats or other rodents roaming around, as they threaten the health and comfort of your household. One common species in Newport News, VA, is the Norway rat. They are large, brown, stocky, and enter homes in search of food and warmth.

To prevent these unwanted guests from getting indoors, seal up any gaps or holes larger than a dime. They can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. If you start hearing strange scratching sounds in your walls or notice gnaw marks on food packaging, call Accel Pest to have your home inspected immediately.

Warning Signs You Have Bed Bugs in Virginia

These tiny, reddish-brown parasites feed on human and animal blood at night. Bed bugs are feared not only because of the irritation they cause, but also because they are easy to pick up without noticing. If you’re traveling, take extra precautions on what you bring to your house and scan everything thoroughly. 

If you spot strange brown stains on your sheets or small, itchy bites on your skin, it’s time to call the professionals. A bed bug infestation is a serious matter and too complex to handle on your own. It requires specialized treatment to be properly addressed. Start your service with Accel Pest and Termite Control today!

What Are Virginia Water Bugs?

Cockroaches, commonly known as Virginia water bugs in this region, are large, reddish-brown insects often found in sewers, basements, and areas with high moisture. They can fly short distances, which positions them as one of the most feared flying insects in Virginia. Seeing one is a good sign that there may be others hiding nearby, particularly in moist, dark areas like your crawl space or basement.

These are very stubborn insects, so no matter if they decide that your house or business is their new home, we recommend getting professional help to remove them.

Virginia’s Seasonal Pest Calendar

Depending on the season, different insects become more active in Virginia. Understanding the pest calendar can help you anticipate potential problems:

• Spring. Peak time for ants, termites, and wasps, as they start becoming active after the winter.
• Summer. High temperatures bring out mosquitoes, ants, flies, wasps, and bees.
• Fall. The temperature begins to drop, atracting spiders and rodents looking for warmth indoors.
• Winter. Pests are less active, but not less concerning. Look out for rodents, Virginia water bugs, ants, and spiders.

Get Pest Control with Accel Pest And Termite Control in Newport News, VA.

Keeping your Newport News, VA, home protected from pests requires expertise. At Accel Pest and Termite Control, we provide comprehensive services to keep unwanted guests out of homes throughout Eastern Virginia.
If you are dealing with a recurring pest issue or just want preventive maintenance, contact us today or request a free estimate!