Texas is home to many pests that can invade your home. Understanding what you're dealing with helps you choose the right treatment approach and know when to call a professional.
Quick Tips
- Seal entry points around doors, windows, and pipes
- Keep food in sealed containers and clean up crumbs promptly
- Fix moisture problems - many pests need water sources
- Maintain your yard - trim bushes and trees away from the house
- Don't delay treatment - pest problems usually get worse
How to Find the Right Provider
Ants
Texas is home to many ant species, including fire ants and carpenter ants.
- Fire ants: Red or brown, aggressive, painful stings
- Carpenter ants: Large, black, can damage wood
- Sugar ants: Small, attracted to sweets
- Professional treatment often needed for infestations
Roaches
American and German cockroaches are common in Texas.
- American roaches: Large, reddish-brown, often come from outside
- German roaches: Smaller, tan, breed rapidly indoors
- German roaches almost always require professional treatment
- Can carry diseases and trigger allergies
Termites
Subterranean termites cause millions in damage annually in Texas.
- Look for mud tubes along foundation
- Swarmers (flying termites) indicate established colony
- Hollow-sounding wood or buckling floors
- Always requires professional treatment
Spiders
Most Texas spiders are harmless, but some can be dangerous.
- Black widows: Black with red hourglass marking
- Brown recluses: Brown with violin shape on back
- Seek medical attention for bites from these species
- General pest control usually reduces spider populations
Rodents
Mice and rats can cause damage and carry diseases.
- Look for droppings, gnaw marks, nesting materials
- Seal entry points larger than 1/4 inch
- Keep food sources secure
- Large infestations benefit from professional help
Red Flags to Watch For
- Finding droppings or dead insects regularly
- Hearing scratching or scurrying sounds
- Seeing live pests during daytime (often indicates large population)
- Finding damaged wood or drywall
- Unusual odors (some pests have distinctive smells)
- Multiple bites or skin irritation
When to Call a Pro
While DIY can handle minor issues, professional help is recommended for: large infestations, recurring problems, termites, bed bugs, and any pest affecting health or safety.
Licensing Agency: Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) (Verify licenses)