Small annoyances can seem huge and one of the most common annoyances are insects. These pests come in many varities and no home is immune to possible infestation. Although there are many insect species, some of the most common that cause homeowners headaches are the following types.

Common Insects

Mosquitos have been hovering over mankind for centuries. Today, mosquitos pose more than a nuisance as West Nile Disease is carried by the pesky creatures. West Nile, characterized by high fever and headache, can be serious and even fatal, especially in senior citizens. Each summer, mosquitos arrive with the season. The best mosquito protection is to not allow standing water around the home or yard. Mosquito lay eggs and larvae hatch in water. Make certain that gutters are clean and clear. Empty and clean both bird baths and pet dishes often.

Cockroaches are one of the most loathed insects by most people. Roaches are scavengers who feed most commonly at night which is why homeowners can turn on a kitchen light and see roaches scatter. Ways to prevent or eliminate cockroaches include never leaving any tidbit of food that might be accessible to the bugs. Boric acid powder sprinkled around in areas where roaches have been seen is also effective and is non-damaging. Roach powders are also an option as are roach traps, often known as roach motels.

Termites, soft bodied, winged insects, are another threat. Termite colonies can number inthe thousands and they eat wood. These pests burrow into wood and eat. Termites can destroy the wood in any home. There is little effective measures for homeowners although some try baiting. The most effective way to eliminate termites, however, is with the help of a professional exterminator.

Ants are another common scourge. Ants come in many varieties. There are the large black or carpenter ants, small ants sometimes known as sugar ants, and fire ants. Fire ants are more common in Southern regions of the United States. Fire ants are aggressive and sting. Their sandy ant hills can measure as much as three feet across. Fire ants are hard to remove but some owners have success with pouring hot water or soapy water into the fire ant mounds. Black and sugar ants are also difficult to remove. The same tactic - pouring hot or soapy water into the ant hill - can be effective. There are also ant traps, ant sprays, and other chemical treatments that can be purchased in farm supply stores, discount stores, and hardware outlets.

Love bugs are another annoyance. These small black and red insects are found in large numbers on roadways in September and May in many regions. Called love bugs because they swarm during mating periods, they can cover a vehicle in moments.

Flies are among the peskiest pests. They seem to get in when no other bug can and are hard to remove. Keep a fly swatter on hand and have good aim. Fly strips are an old-fashioned option and there are fly sprays available. The best protection against flies is to prevent their entry.

These insects are just the most common pests but there are many others. In most cases, a little prevention can go a long way toward major infestations.