What Is It? – Identify Pests Safely and Accurately
When you come across an unfamiliar insect in your home or yard, identifying it correctly is the first step in determining whether it poses a risk. Some pests are harmless, while others may damage property or threaten health. Platinum Pest Management provides this simple guide to help you safely identify insects before deciding on the right course of action.
Step 1: Observe the Insect’s Characteristics
Take a close look at the insect’s shape, size, color, number of legs, and note whether it has wings or antennae. These physical details are the foundation of accurate identification. You can also observe how it moves — crawling, flying, or jumping — as behavior often helps narrow down the species.
Step 2: Note the Color and Markings
Identify the insect’s primary color and record any secondary colors, stripes, or distinctive markings. Patterns and color variations often distinguish one species from another. For example, a solid black beetle differs greatly from one with red or yellow markings.
Step 3: Check for Antennae and Wings
Determine whether the insect has visible antennae or wings. Many pest species, such as ants and termites, have winged forms during certain life stages. Recognizing these traits can help identify whether you’re dealing with an infestation or a single harmless visitor.
Step 4: Use a Reliable Identification Resource
For detailed identification, use an online tool like BugFinder — a free resource designed to help users match characteristics to known species of insects, bugs, and spiders. This step can help you narrow down possibilities and learn more about the insect’s behavior and habitat.
Step 5: Handle with Caution
Always exercise care when observing insects. Avoid touching or trapping unknown species with bare hands. Some pests may bite, sting, or carry harmful bacteria. If you must capture a specimen for closer inspection, wear gloves and use a clear container to observe it safely.
If you believe the insect may be harmful — such as a scorpion, black widow, termite, or wasp — it’s best to contact a professional. Platinum Pest Management can safely identify and treat any pest found on your property.
When to Call a Professional
While online tools are useful for quick identification, accurate diagnosis often requires an experienced eye. Platinum Pest Management offers pest identification and inspection services to determine what kind of insect you’re dealing with and whether treatment is needed. Our trained technicians can identify pests on-site and recommend safe, effective solutions for elimination and prevention.
Serving Arizona Communities
Platinum Pest Management proudly provides pest identification and control services throughout Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Phoenix. Whether it’s an occasional invader or a full infestation, our experts can tell you what it is — and how to get rid of it safely.
