Professionally Identifying the Pest Problem

One of the most critical aspects of successful pest control is being able to accurately identify a pest; this allows our technicians to determine the most effective method for removing your unwanted guests. Certain pests require specific treatments to fully remove. Incorrect identification can result in ineffective control methods that not only fail to get rid of your infestation, but could also cost you quite a bit of money.

The Puget Sound is home to a wide variety of different pests, from smaller insects like termites, bed bugs, or ants to larger pests like birds or rodents. Below are resources to help you identify some of the more common pests in our region.

ANT IDENTIFICATION

Ants come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors in Western Washington. Two of the most common species we see in our region are odorous house ants and carpenter ants.

RODENT IDENTIFICATION

There are many different kinds of rodents present in the Pacific Northwest. The most common we tend to find are rats and mice. There are two types of rats that are found in Washington State: the Roof Rat (rattus rattus) and the Norway Rat (rattus norvegicus).

TERMITE IDENTIFICATION

Termites are one of the most damaging structural pests in the Northwest. There are two common species of termites in Washington: the Pacific Dampwood Termite and the Western Subterranean Termite. Both can cause substantial damage to a structure.

COCKROACH IDENTIFICATION

In the Pacific Northwest, there are four cockroach species that may be encountered in structures. Each of these species prefers different areas in which to live and hide. Because various combinations of species can be encountered at the same time, it is essential to accurately identify the species before starting control methods. The American Cockroach, German Cockroach, Brown-banded Cockroach, and Oriental Cockroach can all be found infesting homes and businesses in our region.

STINGING PEST IDENTIFICATION

Stinging insects come in many shapes and sizes here in the Pacific Northwest; most are beneficial, but some can be dangerous. The following is a list of beneficial and dangerous stinging insects, and some info about them.

SPIDER IDENTIFICATION

There are numerous species of spiders found throughout Western Washington. While most are relatively harmless, some are quite venomous. How the venom from a spider bite affects an individual will largely depend on multiple factors, such as age of the victim, general health, and sensitivity.

BED BUG IDENTIFICATION

Bed bugs, or cimex lectularis, are small parasites ranging in size from poppy seeds to apple seeds (adults are 3/16 inch long). They are flat, oval, reddish-brown in color, and wingless. Bed bugs undergo a gradual metamorphosis with egg, nymph, and adult stages.

BIRD IDENTIFICATION

In the Puget Sound region, the two most common nuisance bird species we deal with are Starlings and Pigeons. Though different in appearance, both of these species can be quite destructive and exceptionally messy. Their droppings can be seen on the side of buildings, frequently in areas where people travel or congregate.

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We understand that your needs can be urgent. Our goal is to provide you with a pest-free home or business as quickly as possible. Call before noon Monday – Friday and a Sentinel professional will be at your door the SAME DAY!

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Our office staff is trained to answer any pest control related questions! Once scheduled with us, an appointment confirmation will be emailed within 15 minutes with your appointment information and a picture of your technician!

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