After a long shift at work or a day doing yard work, the last thing you want to deal with is finding bug bites on yourself. Biting insects are common throughout California, but knowing how to identify them is the first step in keeping them away. Use this guide from Dewey Pest and Termite Control to learn how to identify common California biting insects and prevent infestations.
Types of Biting Insects in California
The following biting insects are most active during the summer months, but that doesn’t mean pests disappear as temperatures cool off in the fall and winter. You’ll need to learn how to spot biting insects before they spot you. Here are four common California biting pests to look out for:
1. Mosquitoes
One flying insect that bites you should never ignore is mosquitoes. Their ability to transmit disease through their bites makes them dangerous. If you notice a puffy, red bump on your body, there’s a good chance that it’s a mosquito bite. For mosquito bite treatment, apply an appropriate lotion or cream.
2. Fleas
Although they don’t fly, one of the many garden biting insects to be alert for in California is fleas. These pests hitchhike on your pets or other people’s clothing after being outside. They often hide out in beds, carpets, or upholstery. Flea bites look like small, red bumps that appear in lines or clusters. They may even have a tiny central dot or puncture wound.
3. Bed Bugs
It’s never a bad idea to check for bed bugs, as they are common throughout California. These pests typically hitch a ride into homes on infected luggage or furniture. Bed bug bites often appear as raised, itchy bumps in a line or zigzag pattern.
4. Fire Ants
While not every ant in California bites, a common California species that does is the fire ant. The most common type is the red imported fire ant, whose bites can produce a burning sensation and trigger allergic reactions in some people. If you notice any fire ant bites on your body, wash the infected area with soap and apply cream and cold compressions as soon as possible.
How To Prevent Biting Bugs in Your Home
Whether you have a confirmed biting insect problem or suspect one is brewing, there are steps you can take to help prevent biting insects from invading your home. Effective pest prevention tips include:
- Eliminate standing water to stop mosquitoes from laying eggs
- Wash secondhand clothes in hot water in case of bed bugs
- Avoid bringing thrifted furniture home
- Use an EPA-registered insect repellent
- Wear protective clothing that covers your skin while outdoors
- Check your pets for fleas after they’ve been outside
Even though these measures help, there’s no better solution to your insect problems than turning to professional pest control services. The best team will conduct thorough inspections to detect, identify, and treat various intruders.
Kick Out Insects That Bite With Dewey Pest and Termite Control
For the best results in biting insect control, turn to Dewey Pest and Termite Control. Our team takes proactive steps to identify the root of your pest problems and uses specialized treatments to address your infestation or potential pest concerns. With service offices across California, we’ve helped residents statewide with their pest concerns since 1929.
Contact us or find your nearest Dewey Pest and Termite Control branch online to schedule your initial inspection today!
