Common Household Pests in Columbia, MD
Homeowners in Columbia and throughout Howard County, Maryland, deal with a wide range of pests throughout the year. Our mix of wooded areas, suburban neighborhoods, and seasonal weather creates ideal conditions for many common household pests.
Below is a helpful pest library highlighting the most common pests found in Columbia, MD homes—what they are, why they’re a problem, and when it’s time to call a professional.
1. Ants
Ants are one of the most frequent household pests in Maryland. They are attracted to food, moisture, and sugary substances and often enter through tiny cracks.
When to call a professional:
If ants keep returning despite cleaning and sealing entry points, there may be a hidden nest that requires professional treatment.
2. Spiders
Most spiders are harmless and help control other insects, but their presence indoors can be unsettling. Basements, garages, and crawl spaces are common hiding spots.
When to call a professional:
Frequent spider sightings often mean another pest problem is present and needs to be addressed.
3. Cockroaches
Cockroaches thrive in warm, humid environments like kitchens and bathrooms. They can spread bacteria and trigger allergies and asthma.
When to call a professional:
Seeing cockroaches during the day or repeatedly usually means there is a larger infestation.
4. Mice
Mice commonly enter homes seeking warmth, food, and shelter, especially in fall and winter. They can contaminate food and chew wiring and insulation.
When to call a professional:
Droppings, scratching sounds, or repeated sightings indicate an active infestation.
5. Rats
Rats are larger and more destructive than mice and are often found in basements, crawl spaces, and around exterior foundations.
When to call a professional:
Rats reproduce quickly and can cause serious damage, making early professional control important.
6. Wasps
Wasps are aggressive stinging insects that commonly build nests under eaves, decks, and siding during warmer months.
When to call a professional:
If a nest is near doors, windows, or outdoor living areas, professional removal is recommended for safety.
7. Hornets
Hornets are known for their large aerial nests and defensive behavior. They can become a serious hazard if disturbed.
When to call a professional:
Hornet nests should always be handled by trained professionals.
8. Yellow Jackets
Yellow jackets are especially active in late summer and fall. They are attracted to food, trash, and outdoor gatherings.
When to call a professional:
Ground nests or repeated stinging incidents require professional attention.
9. Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes breed in standing water and are common throughout Maryland summers. They are not only annoying but may carry diseases.
When to call a professional:
If mosquitoes make your yard unusable, professional mosquito control can significantly reduce populations.
10. Fleas
Fleas are often brought inside by pets and can quickly infest carpets, furniture, and bedding.
When to call a professional:
Persistent flea activity usually requires whole-home treatment beyond store-bought products.
11. Ticks
Ticks are common in wooded and grassy areas around Columbia and can attach to people and pets, potentially transmitting diseases.
When to call a professional:
If ticks are found regularly on your property, professional yard treatments can help reduce risk.
12. Stink Bugs
Stink bugs frequently invade Maryland homes in the fall seeking warmth. They release an unpleasant odor when disturbed.
When to call a professional:
Large numbers indoors or recurring seasonal invasions may require exclusion and treatment.
13. Boxelder Bugs
These insects gather on sunny exterior walls and may enter homes in large numbers. They are harmless but annoying.
When to call a professional:
Repeated invasions year after year can often be prevented with professional sealing and treatment.
14. Earwigs
Earwigs prefer moist environments and are commonly found in bathrooms, basements, and crawl spaces.
When to call a professional:
If earwigs are consistently appearing indoors, moisture and entry issues should be addressed professionally.
15. Silverfish
Silverfish thrive in humid areas and feed on paper, glue, and stored items.
When to call a professional:
Ongoing sightings usually mean hidden moisture problems and nesting areas.
16. Centipedes
House centipedes are fast-moving pests often found in basements and bathrooms. While creepy, they feed on other insects.
When to call a professional:
Frequent sightings suggest another pest population is supporting them.
17. Crickets
Crickets often enter homes in search of warmth and can be noisy at night, especially in basements and garages.
When to call a professional:
Persistent cricket activity may indicate exterior entry points that need sealing.
18. Carpet Beetles
Carpet beetle larvae can damage rugs, clothing, and stored fabrics.
When to call a professional:
If fabric damage continues, professional treatment is needed to stop the life cycle.
19. Moles
Moles are outdoor pests that tunnel through lawns, leaving ridges and mounds.
When to call a professional:
Extensive lawn damage often requires professional trapping and control.
Trusted Pest Control in Columbia, MD
If you’re dealing with any of these pests in Columbia or the surrounding Howard County area, early action can prevent bigger problems later.
At Home Advantage Pests, we focus on safe, effective solutions tailored to Maryland homes.
- Locally owned and operated
- Residential pest specialists
- Long-term prevention, not quick fixes
