Invasive Species Outlook: Which Pests To Keep An Eye Out For In And Around The Home

While pests such as cockroaches, rodents, and stinging insects are usually the species of concern for homeowners, it’s important to keep in mind that there are also invasive pests making their way across the U.S. wreaking havoc on their new environments. Cowleys, in partnership with the National Pest Management Association, is sharing information about the top invasive species that could be found both indoors and out this year. While not all residents in the U.S. are battling these pests, it’s possible they can continue their invasion across the country in left uncontrolled. 

“Invasive species cause a big concern as they arrive in the U.S. with no known predators and little information about them,” said Bill Cowley, Co-Owner of Cowleys Pest Services. “While public awareness is necessary to help stop the spread of these species, there is only so much that can be done once they have taken up residence here. Because most invasive species cause a negative impact wherever they end up, it’s important for homeowners to take action immediately.”    

Cowleys Pest Services, and the NPMAare sharing information about the invasive species you could spot this season: 

• Spotted lanternflies are a threat to agriculture in the Northeast as this pest feeds on the sap within many trees and plants. Initially reported in Pennsylvania in 2014, it has made its way to several states. Remove spotted lanternflies immediately by scraping the egg sacs into a plastic bag and disposing of them. 
• Stink bugs were first discovered in the U.S. in 1996. This pest is native to Asia and, while it poses no health threat to humans, it is known for the odor it emits when crushed. Stink bugs can be found in the Eastern half of the U.S., as well as California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. To prevent them, patch holes in screen doors and windows. 
• Asian longhorned ticks became a concerning threat after being found in New Jersey in 2017. Since then, it has been discovered that this species can reproduce without a mate and transmit diseases to humans and animals. According to the CDC, Asian long-horned ticks are found in 16 states from New York down to South Carolina and from the Mid-Atlantic, west to Missouri. It is the first invasive tick to become established in the U.S. in fifty years. Avoid encounters with all ticks by wearing appropriate clothing, insect repellent with at least 20 percent DEET, and by conducting tick checks. 
• Red Imported Fire Ants (RIFA) are an ant species native to Brazil first discovered in Alabama in 1933. Now found in Southern and Western states, this ant will attack anything that disturbs its nest, making it important to work with a licensed pest control professional to remove their mounds.