Pest Library

American dog ticks as their name describes, feed on the blood of dogs, as well as many other different animal hosts, including people. They are one of the largest ticks living in the northeast region, with adults growing to half an inch in length after feeding. These ticks are a reddish-brown color with white or yellow markings at their front end. Like all ticks, American dog ticks are wingless, adults have eight legs, and blood is their sole source of nutrition.

Mice are one of the most common household pests in Massachusetts, particularly during the colder months when they seek shelter indoors. These small rodents are more than just a nuisance; they can damage property, contaminate food, and spread diseases. Learning about their behavior, habits, and prevention strategies can help homeowners protect their homes and families.

Black-legged deer ticks have brownish-orange bodies and distinctive dark-colored legs. They are often called "deer" ticks because of their affinity for feeding on the blood of white-tailed deer but don’t let the name fool you; they also feed on many other warm-blooded animals. People, dogs, cats, rodents, raccoons, and skunks are also regular hosts of these blood-feeding pests.

The opossum is the only marsupial species native to North America. Marsupials are mammals that have young that are born underdeveloped and finish developing in an external pouch found on their mother’s abdomen.

Mosquitoes are a type of true fly and, like other flies, only have a single pair of wings. They can fly some distances, but they are not strong fliers and are easily thrown off course by a stiff breeze.

Small furry mammals about the size of a housecat, skunks are easy to identify because of their white and black color pattern. Though their color pattern is striking, skunks are best known for the foul liquid they spray from glands at the base of their tail.  Skunks are always an unwelcome sight on any property and are unfortunately found living throughout Massachusetts and all of New England. 

Lone star ticks are well-known in the southeastern portion of the United States but have made their way up the East Coast and now live throughout New England. These ticks can grow to about one-half an inch in length and are a brown color with a bright white spot on their back.

Squirrels are a common type of rodent. In the northeast, tree squirrels are most common and usually are identified by their large bushy tail and their presence in trees and on buildings’ roofs.

Woodchucks are large rodents that are common pests in Massachusetts and New Hampshire lawns and gardens. Though they look vastly different, they are, in fact, members of the squirrel family.  Like all rodents, woodchucks have large, continuously growing front incisors they use for feeding.

Contrary to popular belief, spiders are not insects; they are actually arachnids, closely related to ticks and scorpions. Possessing the signature trait of eight legs and known to leave behind webs, spiders are notorious for spooking many homeowners.

The number one nuisance pest, ants make up the majority of local pest problems. Varying by species, the average colony is made up of anywhere between 300,000 to 500,000 ants. With the capability of surviving more than seven years, it’s no surprise that they are likely to take up residence in your home.

There are a number of stinging insects common to North America, many of which pose a threat to your family’s well being. Insects like bees, wasps and hornets can cause painful, sometimes life-threatening stings! It’s important to understand the behaviors and characteristics of these pests, so you can stay safe.

At Freedom Pest Control, we understand that bats play a vital role in our ecosystem, helping to control insect populations and promoting healthy biodiversity. However, when bats take up residence in homes or buildings, they can pose health risks and structural challenges.

Causing more than $5 billion in damage to homes across the United States each year, termites are most common in the southern part of the nation, including the Carolinas. Since most homeowners’ insurance won't cover termite damage, professional help and prevention methods are often recommended.

Bed bugs are one of the most resilient and challenging pests to deal with, and they can be found in homes, hotels, and public spaces across Massachusetts. Despite their small size, these pests can cause significant discomfort and inconvenience, making education about their habits, behaviors, and prevention crucial.

Aedes sollicitans mosquitoes are also commonly called saltmarsh mosquitoes because they so naturally live around marshy areas. They are medium-sized mosquitoes and have rusty color and white banding around their legs. Like other mosquito species, female Aedes sollicitans require blood meals from people or animals to produce their eggs.

Roaches travel through dirty areas, carrying germs from one place to another and contaminating food, surfaces, and other items they come in contact with. They spread more than 30 different types of bacteria, including salmonella, which can cause physical distress in humans.

Aedes vexans mosquitoes are one of the most widespread species of mosquitoes living across the world and in our Newburyport service area. Like other types of mosquitoes, their females require blood meals to produce healthy eggs. Aedes vexans mosquitoes like to feed on larger hosts like people and livestock.

Indian meal moths are a prevalent household pest, especially in Massachusetts, where they are frequently found in kitchens and pantries. Known for their ability to contaminate stored food products, these pests can be both frustrating and costly to eliminate. Understanding their habits, life cycle, and prevention measures can help homeowners effectively manage and avoid infestations.