Washington State, with its diverse climate and landscapes, has a variety of pests that can cause problems for home, agriculture, and its natural ecosystems. Here are 25 common pests in Washington:
- Aphids: These small insects can damage many types of garden and agricultural plants.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can damage a variety of plants, sucking their sap and causing discoloration and damage.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can cause significant damage to gardens and crops.
- Codling Moth: These pests are a significant problem for apple, pear, and other fruit trees.
- Apple Maggot: This pest can significantly damage apple crops.
- Spotted Wing Drosophila: This invasive fruit fly affects a wide range of soft-skinned fruits.
- Gypsy Moth: Gypsy moths can defoliate large sections of forest and urban trees.
- Western Tent Caterpillar: These pests can defoliate trees and shrubs.
- Mountain Pine Beetle: This beetle has caused significant damage to pine forests in the western U.S.
- Emerald Ash Borer: Although not yet in Washington as of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, this invasive beetle could be devastating to ash trees if it becomes established.
- Asian Giant Hornet: Also known as “murder hornets,” these invasive insects pose a serious threat to honeybees and can deliver a painful sting to humans.
- Yellowjackets and Wasps: These insects can deliver painful stings and can become aggressive when their nests are threatened.
- Deer and Elk: These large mammals can cause significant damage to gardens and crops.
- Rodents (Mice, Rats, and Voles): These animals can cause structural damage to homes and crops.
- Carpenter Ants: These ants can cause structural damage to homes by tunneling through wood.
- Termites: These insects can cause serious structural damage to buildings and homes.
- Bed Bugs: These pests infest homes and feed on human blood.
- Cockroaches: These insects can infest homes and are associated with various diseases.
- Mosquitoes: These insects can transmit diseases such as West Nile Virus.
- Fleas: These pests can infest homes and pets, causing discomfort and potential health problems.
- Powdery Mildew: A common fungal disease that can affect a wide range of plants.
- Late Blight: This disease is a significant problem for potato and tomato crops.
- Clubroot: A disease that causes deformities in the roots of cabbage family plants.
- Verticillium Wilt: A soil-borne fungal disease that can affect a wide variety of plants.
- Apple Scab: A fungal disease of apples and crabapples.
As always, the best approach often involves integrated pest management (IPM), a strategy that seeks to minimize pest damage with the least possible harm to people, property, and the environment. Consult with a local extension service or pest control professional for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.