Pennsylvania has a diverse climate and landscape, ranging from large urban areas to farmland and forests. Each of these areas has its own pest concerns. Here is a list of 25 common pests in Pennsylvania:
- Stink Bugs: The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, in particular, has been a significant nuisance in Pennsylvania, both as an agricultural pest and a household invader.
- Spotted Lanternfly: This is an invasive pest in Pennsylvania that can harm many types of trees and plants.
- Emerald Ash Borer: This invasive insect has caused significant damage to ash trees throughout the state.
- Japanese Beetles: These pests can severely damage lawns, crops, and ornamental plants.
- Ticks: Lyme disease, carried by ticks, is a major concern in Pennsylvania.
- Aphids: These tiny insects can harm many types of garden and agricultural plants.
- Mosquitoes: These pests can carry and transmit diseases like West Nile Virus.
- Cockroaches: These insects are common household pests and can carry several diseases.
- Bed Bugs: These pests can infest homes and feed on human blood.
- Mice and Rats: These rodents can infest homes, cause damage, and carry diseases.
- Termites: Termites cause structural damage to buildings and homes by feeding on wood.
- Ants: Certain species, like the carpenter ant, can cause damage to homes.
- Gypsy Moths: These pests can defoliate large areas of forest.
- Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: This is a serious pest for hemlock trees in Pennsylvania’s forests.
- Asian Longhorned Beetle: This invasive beetle can cause significant damage to a wide variety of trees.
- Spotted Wing Drosophila: This fruit fly is a significant pest for fruit crops, especially berries.
- Black Vine Weevil: These pests can harm many types of ornamental plants.
- Cabbage Looper: This caterpillar is a common pest in gardens and farms and feeds on a wide variety of plants.
- Fleas: These pests can infest homes and pets, causing discomfort and potential health problems.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease affects a wide range of plants.
- Deer: In some areas, deer can be considered pests because of the damage they can cause to gardens and landscaping.
- Grubs: These are the larval stage of beetles and can cause damage to lawns.
- Squirrels: While often enjoyed for their antics, they can cause damage to homes and gardens.
- Late Blight: This disease, caused by a fungus-like organism, can severely damage tomato and potato plants.
- Scale Insects: These insects can cause significant damage to ornamental and fruit trees.
As always, it’s essential to approach pest control in a way that is safe for the environment, pets, and people. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies can help to control pests in a sustainable way.