Pest Library

Common Pests in Canada

Understanding the pests that affect your property is the first step in effective pest management. Our pest library provides detailed information about common pests in Canada, their behavior, risks, and prevention methods.

House Mouse

Mus musculus

A common rodent in Canadian homes and businesses, particularly during colder months. These small, agile mice can squeeze through openings as small as 6mm and are known for their rapid reproduction rate.

Risks

• Contamination of food and surfaces with droppings and urine
• Spread of diseases like Hantavirus and Salmonella
• Structural damage from gnawing
• Electrical damage from chewing wires

Solutions

• Professional inspection and entry point identification
• Strategic baiting and trapping programs
• Exclusion techniques and sealing entry points
• Sanitation recommendations and follow-up monitoring

Prevention

• Seal all gaps and cracks larger than 6mm
• Store food in rodent-proof containers
• Maintain clean and clutter-free spaces
• Regular property inspections

German Cockroach

Blattella germanica

The most common cockroach species in Canadian buildings, particularly in restaurants, apartments, and food processing facilities. They thrive in warm, humid environments and can reproduce rapidly.

Risks

• Spread of bacteria and pathogens
• Food contamination
• Allergy and asthma triggers
• Rapid infestation due to high reproduction rate

Solutions

• Professional inspection and identification
• Integrated pest management approach
• Targeted baiting and treatment
• Follow-up monitoring and prevention

Prevention

• Maintain clean and dry environments
• Seal entry points and cracks
• Proper food storage and waste management
• Regular professional inspections

Bed Bugs

Cimex lectularius

A growing concern in Canadian cities, particularly in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. These nocturnal pests feed on human blood and are excellent hitchhikers, spreading through luggage and furniture.

Risks

• Itchy, uncomfortable bites
• Psychological distress and sleep disruption
• Potential allergic reactions
• Social stigma and property devaluation

Solutions

• Thorough inspection and detection
• Heat treatment (effective in Canadian climate)
• Chemical treatment and monitoring
• Follow-up inspections

Prevention

• Regular inspection of bedding and furniture
• Careful handling of second-hand items
• Proper luggage inspection after travel
• Professional preventive treatment

Carpenter Ants

Camponotus spp.

Common in Canadian forests and urban areas, these large ants can cause significant structural damage by tunneling through wood. They are particularly active during spring and summer months.

Risks

• Structural damage to buildings
• Wood damage in homes and businesses
• Potential electrical damage
• Nesting in wall voids and insulation

Solutions

• Professional inspection and nest location
• Targeted treatment of nests
• Exclusion techniques
• Preventive barrier treatments

Prevention

• Remove wood debris from property
• Seal entry points
• Maintain proper ventilation
• Regular property inspections

Stored Product Pests

Various species

Common in Canadian warehouses, grocery stores, and food processing facilities. These pests infest stored food products and can cause significant economic losses.

Risks

• Product contamination
• Economic losses
• Food safety issues
• Reputation damage

Solutions

• Inventory inspection and monitoring
• Fumigation services
• Temperature treatment
• Sanitation protocols

Prevention

• Proper storage practices
• Regular inventory rotation
• Temperature and humidity control
• Sanitation maintenance

Cluster Flies

Pollenia rudis

Common in Canadian homes during fall and winter. These flies seek shelter in buildings to overwinter and can appear in large numbers, particularly in attics and wall voids.

Risks

• Large numbers in buildings
• Staining from excrement
• Unpleasant odors
• Disturbance to occupants

Solutions

• Exclusion techniques
• Vacuum removal
• Residual treatments
• Preventive measures

Prevention

• Seal entry points
• Install screens on vents
• Regular property maintenance
• Professional preventive treatment

Flea Control

Ctenocephalides felis and Ctenocephalides canis

Fleas are common parasites affecting pets and homes across Canada. They reproduce rapidly and can cause discomfort for both pets and humans, often hitching rides on animals and infesting carpets and upholstery.

Risks

• Itchy bites causing irritation and allergic reactions
• Potential transmission of diseases to pets and humans
• Discomfort and sleep disturbance
• Infestations can spread quickly without control

Solutions

• Comprehensive home and pet inspections
• Application of insecticides targeting all flea life stages
• Treatment of indoor and outdoor environments
• Follow-up visits to ensure full eradication

Prevention

• Regular pet grooming and flea treatments
• Cleaning and vacuuming of living spaces
• Limiting pet exposure to infested areas
• Professional preventive pest control programs

Spider Control

Various species

Spiders, while beneficial in controlling other pests, can become unwelcome guests in homes and businesses. Climate changes and urban expansion have increased spider encounters in properties, often causing concern due to their webs and potential bites.

Risks

• Fear and anxiety due to spider presence
• Potential bites, some of which require medical attention
• Webs creating unsightly conditions
• Increased presence indicating other pest issues

Solutions

• Detailed inspection and spider tracking
• Removal of webs and egg sacs
• Targeted treatment using safe, effective insecticides
• Sealing entry points to prevent re-infestation

Prevention

• Regular cleaning of webs and clutter removal
• Sealing cracks and openings in structures
• Outdoor maintenance including trimming vegetation
• Professional treatment plans for lasting control

Ant Control

Various species

Ant infestations are common in Canadian homes and businesses, especially during warmer months. These social insects enter buildings searching for food and water and can establish large colonies if untreated.

Risks

• Contamination of food supplies
• Structural damage in some species
• Nuisance and discomfort
• Potential to attract other pests

Solutions

• Identification of entry points and nests
• Use of baits and targeted insecticides
• Disruption of ant trails and colonies
• Ongoing monitoring and follow-up treatments

Prevention

• Proper food storage and cleaning up spills promptly
• Sealing cracks and gaps around the property
• Removing vegetation close to buildings
• Regular professional inspections and treatments

Bees and Wasps Control

Various species

Bees and wasps are common outdoor insects that can sometimes become a threat when their nests are close to human activity areas. While bees play a vital role in pollination, both bees and wasps can pose risks due to their painful stings, especially for those allergic.

Risks

• Painful stings which can cause allergic reactions
• Aggressive behavior when nests are disturbed
• Potential for multiple stings leading to serious health issues
• Nests causing damage to property or structures
• Increased risk to children, pets, and sensitive individuals

Solutions

• Careful inspection to locate nests and activity zones
• Safe removal or relocation of bee hives when possible
• Targeted treatments to eliminate wasp nests
• Use of eco-friendly and humane methods where applicable
• Follow-up visits to prevent re-infestation

Prevention

• Regular inspection of eaves, attics, and outdoor structures
• Sealing entry points and cracks around the property
• Removing food sources like open trash or sugary residues
• Keeping outdoor eating areas clean and covered
• Professional monitoring and control programs