Six Bugs You Should Avoid In Texas

Texas is the ideal home for cockroaches, especially along the gulf coastline. Though this is not an insect that is going to sting or bite you, it is known to carry human pathogens, spread bacteria, and cause an allergic asthmatic reaction in some. This makes it a bug you shouldn’t be around or have in your home.

Spiders

All spiders have venom because spiders are a predatory creature, but most spiders have a venom too weak to harm humans, or mouthparts that are unable to break our skin. This actually makes them a beneficial pest to have around. They live to eat other bugs and that means fewer bugs biting you. But in Texas we have two types of spiders you’re going to want to keep an eye out for. They come from the recluse and widow families. Brown recluse and black widows both have a potent venom that can be harmful to humans. Be mindful that these two spiders hide under things you might turn over in your backyard and in attic boxes.

Scorpions

Texas is home to many types of scorpions. In Houston, the most common species found is the striped bark scorpion. This is an insect that can ruin your day. The reaction from a bark scorpion can be anything from an intense localized pain to severe pain in the abdomen and difficulty breathing. Texans know all too well that shaking out clothing and shoes is a must in this state, especially if you want to avoid a sting from this critter.

Stinging Insects

Texas is home to wasps, hornets and other stinging insects. Though only people who are allergic to stinging insects have anything to fear from these pests, it is never pleasant to be stung. The most aggressive stinger in the state is the yellow jacket. It can sting multiple times and is also known to swarm and give chase. To avoid stings, make sure to proactively get nests removed from your yard by a professional.

Ants

Like hornets and wasps, ants aren’t dangerous unless the person being bitten has an allergy, but they can still be unpleasant. Ask any Texan who has ever accidentally stood on a fire ant mound. It ain’t fun. Keep a wary eye on the ground if you plan to be walking around outside.

Mosquitoes

This is an insect that plagues people everywhere, and Texas is no exception. In other countries of the world, the mosquito takes part in killing around a million people by spreading diseases like malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, and West Nile virus. Fortunately, with fast transportation, good hospital care and mosquito abatement, America has protected itself. But that doesn’t mean people don’t get really sick. If you plan to visit the state, be sure to wear repellant.

If you live in Texas and you’re dealing with any of these invasive pests, contact Holder’s. Holder’s Pest Solutions has been protecting Texans since 1947. Give us the opportunity to protect you.