What Are the Most Common Pests in South Carolina?

With its hot, humid summers and mild winters, South Carolina’s climate is a major attraction for many — including a wide variety of household pests. From water bugs to carpenter ants, these pesky critters can be a nuisance and a health hazard, and knowing which ones are most common in the area is essential for effective pest control.

In this blog post, the pest treatment experts at Home Paramount Pest Control discuss some of the most commonly seen pests in South Carolina so you can take swift action to protect your property from infestation.

5 Most Common Pests in South Carolina

These five pests are among the most prevalent and problematic in South Carolina. Here, we explore what each pest looks like and the signs that may indicate infestation.

American Cockroaches

Large, reddish-brown insects with a yellowish figure-eight pattern on their heads, American cockroaches are often found in warm, damp areas like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. Signs of an infestation often include:

• Spotting live roaches, especially during the day
• Finding droppings that resemble small pellets
• Noticing a musty odor in infested areas
• Dark, oval-shaped egg cases

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are large black or reddish ants known for their ability to tunnel through wood, which can cause significant structural damage to your property. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood. Instead, they remove it to create their nests.

Signs of an infestation include seeing large ants inside or around your property, particularly near wooden structures. You may also find small piles of wood shavings beneath wooden items or hear faint rustling noises from within the walls when carpenter ants have taken over.

German Cockroaches

Smaller than their American counterparts, German cockroaches are light brown with two dark stripes running down their backs. Drawn to warm, humid environments, it’s no wonder why these pesky critters are frequently spotted in South Carolina kitchens and bathrooms.

Signs of a German cockroach infestation often include:

• Spotting the insects, especially at night
• Finding droppings that look like black pepper
• Noticing a strong, oily smell in infested areas
• Discovering brown, oval-shaped egg capsules

Mosquitoes

These small, flying insects with long legs and slender bodies are known to carry serious diseases like West Nile virus, Zika virus, and malaria. Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so any stagnant water sources around your property can lead to an infestation.

Signs of mosquito infestation typically include the presence of adult mosquitoes, itchy bite marks on your skin, and the sound of buzzing around your property, especially during dusk and dawn hours.

Termites

Termites are small, pale insects that live in colonies and feed on wood, making them one of the most destructive pests in the area. They’re often mistaken for ants but can be distinguished by their straight antennae and equal-length wings.

Signs of a termite infestation include:

• Finding discarded wings near windows or doors
• Spotting mud tubes on the exterior walls of your home
• Noticing hollow-sounding wood or wood that’s easily damaged
• Blistered or peeling paint, indicating burrowing

Contact Home Paramount Pest Control for Pest Control Services in South Carolina

Dealing with pests can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. Home Paramount Pest Control offers comprehensive pest control services throughout South Carolina, using eco-friendly methods to protect your home or business from these common pests without harming your surrounding ecosystem.

Our team of experienced professionals is equipped to handle infestations of all sizes, ensuring your property remains pest-free for the long term.

Contact us today to schedule a pest inspection and take the first step toward a safer, healthier living environment.