Which Bugs are Attracted to Moisture

Like all living things, food, water, and shelter are necessary for pests to survive. So, when perfect conditions arise, the insect world thrives and flourishes. Whether it be from problems with your plumbing, standing water in your garden, high humidity, or your house just being an inviting place to hide away from the storms, the chances are some pests will pay you an unwelcome visit. 

In this post, we look at which bugs are attracted to moisture and discuss what measures you can take to prevent or eradicate them.

What Pests Are Drawn to Damp Areas?

Pests and problems with moisture go hand-in-hand. Below are some of the most likely culprits that you will see in and around your building if you have damp areas that need addressing.  

Silverfish

One of the most common insects associated with damp areas is silverfish. Luckily, these bugs aren’t dangerous to humans; however, they can cause damage to your household content. 

Silverfish thrive in humid conditions and are normally found in dark and damp places. If you discover their presence, it may mean you have a leak that needs to be dealt with or need to look at ways of reducing humidity levels. If left, they may cause damage to plaster walls, books and paper, and even synthetic fabrics. 

Woodlice

Woodlice are more commonly found outdoors, hiding beneath rocks, though, with heavy rainfall or problems with dampness, you may discover them indoors. These will typically be found in bathrooms or under kitchen sinks. They are harmless, except for eating foliage, wooden flooring, and some items of furniture.

Cockroaches

When talking about which bugs are attracted to moisture, Cockroaches are near the top of the list. Renowned for surviving in most environments, moist properties are something Cockroaches actively seek out.

Unlike silverfish and woodlice, cockroaches are a hazard and must be quickly removed. This is due to them spreading diseases, such as salmonella and E. coli, and triggering asthma and allergies (especially in young children).  

Cockroaches are mightily good at playing hide and seek, though there are some signs to look out for, including:

• Small, round and dark droppings. Often you will find small irregular smears on flooring and other surfaces. 
• Egg casings stuck to surfaces due to the alarming rate they reproduce. 
• A musty, pungent smell that lingers in the air.

It’s important to get any cockroach infestation effectively under control. Find out how to deal with a cockroach infestation.

Ants

Ants prefer to build their nests in moist, warm and dark places. If you have a humidity problem present on your premises, then they will most likely be drawn to that space. Commonly, this is around kitchen areas.

Along with the ability to damage your property’s foundations, they can also give a nasty nip and do pose a threat to public health due to spreading diseases.

Like nests in your garden, they can spread rapidly and be difficult to keep under control, so time is of the essence if you find an infestation! 

Find out more information about ant prevention methods around homes and gardens.

Flies, Midges, and Mosquitoes

Flies love water sources. Whether it’s standing water to lay their eggs or just circling around your drain or pet’s bowl – if there’s an area with moisture, they will be there! 

The UK now even finds itself with pesky mosquitoes waiting to feast on our blood. Here are some ways that you can protect yourself from them. 

Infestations tend to occur around areas such as puddles on flat roofs, in blocked drains or guttering, or around ponds, bird tables and paddling pools. From these areas, flies often then migrate indoors. We all know that these are very unhygienic insects, so that’s the last place we want them to be!

By removing these water sources, you can normally eradicate the problem. However, if you find you are still having problems with flies, we offer a wide range of fly control measures, including ULV fogging treatments and electronic fly control machines.

Rats

A damp property or one with drainage trouble will be a big attraction for vermin, such as rats. This will cause a serious health risk for homes and businesses alike, so it’s crucial that you get help to deal effectively with the issue before it gets out of hand.  

Signs to look out for if you have a problem with rats:

• Rat droppings resembling a dark brown grain of rice. These will typically be clustered in locations where the rats have been dwelling.
• Gnaw marks on wood, plastic, and wires.
• Hearing scratching and scurrying noises, most likely at night time when they are most active.  
• Smudges and marks on walls and skirtings.
• Holes or tunnels at the foot of walls. 

Read more about our important and effective rat control services.

Preventative Pest Measures You Can Take

• Remove areas of standing water.
• Cut back overgrowth from your garden that may form moisture.
• Fill in any gaps, cracks, or holes that you may find around the perimeter of your building.
• Unclog or fix broken guttering. 
• Repair water leaks and drains.
• Address and remove areas with mould.
• Undertake good housekeeping by sweeping, vacuuming, and wiping counters regularly.
• Remove your pet’s food and water bowls when they’re done with them.
• Control the condensation in your home, wiping away any condensation that forms. Seal leaks in windows if you find a draft.
• Use dehumidifiers in areas with high humidity. 

If you need our help, we have over 25 years of experience in effective pest control solutions. If you would like a free, no-obligation quote for your home or business, then please get in touch with our team.