West Virginia’s diverse ecology supports a range of pests that can affect homes, agriculture, and its natural ecosystems. Here are 25 common pests you might encounter in West Virginia:
- Emerald Ash Borer: This invasive beetle can cause significant damage to ash trees.
- Gypsy Moth: Gypsy moths can defoliate large sections of forest.
- Japanese Beetle: This pest can be very damaging to many types of plants.
- Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: These tiny insects can be devastating to hemlock trees.
- Deer Tick: Also known as the black-legged tick, it can transmit Lyme disease to humans.
- Mosquitoes: These insects can carry diseases like West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
- Bed Bugs: These pests infest homes and feed on human blood.
- Cockroaches: These insects can infest homes and are associated with various diseases.
- Termites: These insects can cause serious structural damage to buildings and homes.
- Carpenter Ants: These ants can cause structural damage to homes by tunneling through wood.
- Mice and Rats: These rodents can infest homes, cause damage, and carry diseases.
- Aphids: These small insects can damage many types of garden and agricultural plants.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can damage a variety of plants by sucking their sap.
- Fire Ants: These ants deliver painful bites and can damage lawns.
- Grubs: These are the larval stage of various types of beetles and can cause damage to lawns.
- Scale Insects: These pests can cause serious damage to a variety of plants.
- Bagworms: These pests are known for the damage they can cause to trees and shrubs.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can cause significant damage to gardens and crops.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease affects a wide range of plants.
- Apple Scab: A fungal disease of apples and crabapples.
- Anthracnose: A fungal disease that can cause significant damage to trees.
- Fleas: These pests can infest homes and pets, causing discomfort and potential health problems.
- Whiteflies: These insects can damage many types of plants, particularly those in greenhouses or indoor settings.
- Groundhogs: Also known as woodchucks, they can cause significant damage to gardens and yards by burrowing and eating plants.
- Deer: Deer can cause significant damage to gardens, shrubs, and trees through feeding.
As always, the best approach to controlling pests often involves integrated pest management (IPM), a strategy that seeks to reduce pest damage with the least possible harm to people, property, and the environment. Always consult with a local extension service or pest control professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.