Situated on the scenic Gulf Coast, the combination of great weather, beautiful beaches and a variety of attractions makes Tampa, Florida, a favorite of tourists and residents alike. Unfortunately, the warm and humid weather is also attractive to a variety of insects and other pests. If you live or own a business in the Tampa area, here are three of the most important local pests you need to know.
Termites
A serious threat to Tampa homes and businesses alike, termites are insidious little pests. They cause an estimated five billion dollars in damages in the United States each year, and the Tampa area is home to three distinct types: drywood, dampwood and subterranean termites. All termites are potentially threatening, but subterranean termites are especially known for wreaking havoc on area properties. The average colony can contain millions of individuals, and they can begin to cause serious damage in a matter of days. Worst of all, this destruction may not be readily apparent to the untrained eye. If you spot mud tubes, hollowed-out wood, small piles of wings or other signs of a potential termite infestation, it’s imperative that you act quickly to get professional treatment in order to protect your property.
Bed Bugs
There are few pest infestations more frustrating than bed bugs. Though they aren’t known to transmit diseases to humans, these parasitic insects can be difficult to spot and are devilishly tricky to eradicate once they’ve taken over your home. They subsist on the blood of their hosts – that means you! – by biting through the skin with sharp, elongated beaks. Though some people experience few symptoms from these bites, other people may suffer intense itching, redness, welts and swelling. Bed bugs are common pests in homes as well as hotels and similar businesses, and they typically require thorough inspection and professional treatment to fully remove.
Roaches
With hot, humid weather throughout much of the year, the climate in the Tampa area provides an almost ideal breeding ground for cockroaches. Indeed, data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that nearly four in ten homes in the Tampa area have had problems with roaches at some time or another. Businesses, too, are all too familiar with the issues associated with these reviled insects. In addition to the creep factor, roaches also pose potential health risks. They’re known to carry a number of diseases, and cockroach dust is also an allergen. Inhaling this dust can lead to difficulty breathing, swelling of the airways, asthma attacks and other issues, particularly in the youngest and oldest populations.
Dealing with pests is an unfortunate but unavoidable fact of life, particularly in an area known for its warm and balmy weather. Though there are steps you can take to safeguard your home or place of business against these pesky intruders, there’s no way to completely eliminate the risk. If you believe your property has become home to one or more of these unwanted guests, you don’t have to deal with the problem alone. PestBear is Florida’s premier pest control provider, and we’re here to help at any time of day or night. Simply contact PestBear to get started with a free quote and consultation!
