Best Pest Control in South Florida: Identifying Common Household Insects

Buzzing with activity, south Florida is a hot spot for visitors in more ways than one. As the temperatures begin to rise and seasonal travelers head outside to the beaches, pests emerge to follow them back indoors. Before they can turn your house into a permanent vacation home, let’s discuss some of the common pests you are likely to see in south Florida, why they are so prevalent, and how you can keep them away with a little help from the pros at Hulett Environmental Services. 

Understanding South Florida’s Climate 

South Florida’s tropical climate is distinctly different from the subtropical climate found in the northern parts of the state. This warm region experiences high humidity, high temperatures, and significant rainfall year-round, creating the perfect, muggy environment for many varieties of pests.

This tropical weather occurs due to south Florida’s proximity to the equator and the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. The region typically experiences mild winters and hot, humid summers, with daily temperatures often exceeding 90° F. The high precipitation levels, especially during the summer months, create ample breeding grounds for insects. 

To put it short, the same seasonal weather that draws in thousands of tourists each year brings with it an abundance of pests. So, let’s learn more about what pests to look for, the signs of their presence, and how Hulett can help you keep them away. 

Mosquitoes 

Mosquitoes are notorious for taking advantage of south Florida’s moisture to rapidly reproduce, leading to infestations that appear seemingly out of nowhere. They migrate between homes to find pools of stagnant water, which are plentiful in many yards, and quickly begin laying eggs once they do. 

The first step any homeowner can take to deter mosquitoes is to remove standing water wherever possible. While some areas, like bird feeders and outdoor grills, are easy to keep dry, a backyard pool or simply a wet lawn after a rainy day is all mosquitoes need. If you want to be sure you’re protected from them, count on expert mosquito , No-see-um, and fly control from Hulett. 

Cockroaches 

Cockroaches are resilient pests that can survive in practically any environment but thrive in south Florida’s warm, humid climate. More than merely unsightly insects, cockroaches can contaminate food and surfaces with their droppings, which can trigger allergies and asthma attacks, particularly among children. The most common types of household insects in south Florida include: 

• The American cockroach (also known as the palmetto bug or water bug)
• The German cockroach
• Florida woods cockroach

Cockroaches prefer a messy home full of nooks and crannies in which to hide and feed. To deprive them of food and shelter, regularly clean your kitchen, dispose of garbage promptly, and fix any leaks or moisture issues in your home. If you suspect a full infestation, Hulett has the specialized equipment and training required to fully eliminate their presence. 

Spiders 

While most spiders are not deadly, it’s important to be aware of the few that can pose a danger to humans. In south Florida, the black widow and brown recluse spiders are two species to watch out for. Black widows are identifiable by their shiny black bodies and red hourglass markings on their abdomens. Brown recluses have distinctive violin-shaped marks on their backs and prefer hiding in dark, undisturbed areas. Although the brown recluse is not native to south Florida, they can be transported in stored goods and packages. 

A single spider in your home is likely nothing to worry about, but to avoid an infestation of spiders in your house, regularly clean and declutter spaces like basements, attics, and garages. We recommend you use gloves when moving items that have been stored for a long time and shake out clothing or shoes before wearing them. If there are multiple spiders in your home or if you’re unsure of the risks they present, do not put yourself in harm’s way. Reach out to a Hulett professional to assess the situation for the most effective results. 

Bed Bugs

Florida’s climate and tourism industry greatly contributes to the presence of bed bugs. These pests are notorious for causing distress and discomfort through their nocturnal bites, which often result in patches of itchy, red welts. As master infiltrators, bed bugs can enter your home through luggage, clothing, and used furniture, making them a common issue in residential and commercial properties. 

To prevent bed bugs, especially if you are housing guests, inspect your bedding, mattresses, and furniture regularly for signs of infestation, such as small reddish-brown spots in the fabric. When traveling, check hotel rooms for bed bugs and keep your luggage elevated off the floor. If you discover bed bugs in your home, DIY treatments likely will not be enough to fully remove them. Luckily, Hulett’s bed bug treatments are designed to effectively eliminate these pests in the least invasive fashion possible so you can return to a restful night’s sleep. 

Other Common South Florida Pests 

South Florida is home to several other common household insects that, while not necessarily dangerous, can cause discomfort for you and your family. A few more pests you might encounter include:

• Ants in Florida, such as fire ants, carpenter ants, and sugar ants, each require a specialized approach to removal.
• Fleas can infest homes with or without pets, causing discomfort and potential health issues.
• Ticks are common in grassy and wooded areas and can transmit diseases to humans and pets.
• Silverfish often found in damp, dark areas, these insects can damage paper goods and fabrics.

Stay Prepared With Pest Control From Hulett

With over 50 years of experience, Hulett’s team of local experts is equipped to handle all types of household insects, offering enduring protection for your home in south Florida. Schedule your free pest inspection today, and let us help you achieve peace of mind knowing your home is protected by the best in the business.