Pests Beginning with P

This index features various insects, arachnids, and animals commonly considered pests, whose common names begin with the letter P. Click on a pest name to view detailed identification and control information.

Look-Alike Pests: Similar Names, Different Species

You might notice several pests with nearly identical common names but representing entirely different species under the letter "P." For example, "Paper Wasp" appears multiple times, but refers to a range of species that differ in habits and appearance—think of them as cousins within the same extended wasp family.

Likewise, "Parasitic Fly" doesn’t point to just one insect. Instead, it describes an entire group, including tachinid and flesh flies, each with its own behavior and impact on gardens and homes. The term "Plant Bug" works similarly—it’s an umbrella name covering a variety of sap-feeding bugs, each targeting different plants and sometimes mimicking one another in how they look.

Other examples include:

• "Pleasing Fungus Beetle"—the name applies to several species that might frequent your woodpile or garden mulch.
• "Potter Wasp"—a title given to related, but distinct, mud-daubing wasps that construct small, pot-shaped nests.
• "Predatory Stink Bug"—more than one predatory species exists under this name, each preying on other insects rather than feeding on plants.

So, when you see these names repeated, it isn’t a mistake. Multiple species, often with subtle differences, share these common names, making careful identification especially important.

Household & Structural Pests (P)

• Pantry Moths: General term for stored product moths, including Indian Meal Moths and Almond Moths.
• Paper Wasps: Social wasps that build umbrella-shaped paper nests attached to eaves, decks, or ceilings.
• Pavement Ants: Small, common ants that nest under sidewalks, driveways, and foundations, often invading homes for food.

Garden & Agricultural Pests (P)

• Plant Bugs (Tarnished, Four-Lined): Sucking insects that cause stippling, curling, and distortion in leaves and flower buds.
• Potato Beetles (Colorado Potato Beetle): Highly destructive beetles that feed on potato and other nightshade family plant foliage.

Rodents & Others (P)

• Porcupines (Nuisance): Rodents that can damage wooden structures, outdoor furniture, and trees by gnawing.

Quick Tip: Paper Wasp nests are often smaller than hornets’ and can be safely treated by homeowners at night with proper caution and protective gear.