Unfortunately, Australia has a warm climate that provides perfect conditions for many household pests. Many people are unaware of the number of different pests that may be lurking in their homes. Although it is an unsettling thought, just because you don’t see the signs of a pest infestation, does not mean they are not there. So here are some of the most common pests found in Australian homes.

Cockroaches

Like flies, cockroaches can carry many diseases and germs on and in their bodies due to the fact they spend a lot of time in rubbish piles, compost heaps, and dirt. If they are carrying these germs and then walk over food preparation benches, food, cutlery, or cooking equipment, in the home, they can pass theses germs on to humans. These germs can cause illnesses such as: salmonellosis, shigellosis, gastroenteritis and hepatitis A.

Flies

Flies are particularly common during the summer when their population sizes increase. There are five common fly types in Australia: houseflies, bushflies and blowflies. Flies are attracted by a variety of different things including: dirty benches and tables, food scraps, septic tanks, lawn clippings, animal faeces and general waste. All flies carry a variety of diseases on their hairy bodies and legs and in their stomachs, from landing on these unhygienic sources. If flies then come into contact with food or food utensils these germs are transferred to the food and can infect humans with: salmonellosis, shigellosis, trachoma, hepatitis A and gastroenteritis. Their eggs and larvae (maggots) can also infest your outdoor garbage bins.

Termites

Termites, or white ants, are common pests in Australia. Termites feed on timber and other wood sources including timber frames and wooden beams that support your house, as well as wooden skirting boards and architraves. Termites infiltrate the wood and eat the wood from the inside out. Once they have infiltrated the wood they multiply quickly and begin to compromise the structural integrity of your home. If left too long they can be incredibly difficult to irradiate and cause serious structural damage to your home.

Rats and Mice

Rodents are very common in both rural and urban homes as they are scavengers that can thrive in open fields or in urban landscapes. They are incredibly adaptable and will find food, water and shelter anywhere they can. In Australia there are three main rodent species: the ground rat, the roof rat (or climbing rat) and the house mouse. In winter when it is colder rodents seek refuge within your home in cracks, pipes, ventilation ducts, attics and basements. Rodents are attracted to un-sealed or open food sources within pantries and cupboards, as well as crumbs left around food preparation areas. They are often attracted to fruit and nut bearing tress and bushes that grow in gardens. Rodents are also the carriers of many diseases and bacteria that are detrimental to humans.

Whether you have seen signs of a pest infestation or you want a pest evaluation of your home for peace of mind, contact Trusted Pest Management Australia.

By Grace Patterson

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored guest post.