Living in West Texas means sharing our environment with a variety of hardy insects. While they play their part in the local ecosystem, they certainly don’t belong in your kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom. When pests move in, they bring more than just a “creep factor”—they can bring health risks and property damage.
At Pinkston’s Pest Control, we believe that the first step to a pest-free home is education. Here is your guide to the “Big Three” pests we see in Lubbock: roaches, spiders, and ants.
1. Cockroaches: The Resilient Invaders
Roaches are more than just a nuisance; they are a significant health concern. In Lubbock, we primarily deal with German cockroaches (small and found in kitchens) and American cockroaches (larger, often called “water bugs”).
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Why they are a problem: Roaches carry bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli, on their bodies. Their droppings and shed skins are also known triggers for asthma and allergies, especially in children.
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The “Red Flag”: If you see one roach during the day, it’s a sign of a larger infestation hiding in the walls. They are nocturnal, so seeing them in the light means their hiding spots are overcrowded.
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Prevention Tip: Eliminate “hiding spots” by decluttering cardboard boxes and keeping counters crumb-free.
2. Spiders: The Silent Hunters
Most spiders in West Texas are harmless and actually help control other insect populations. However, there are two species every homeowner should be able to identify: the Black Widow and the Brown Recluse.
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Black Widow: Identified by the red hourglass on its abdomen. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas like woodpiles, garages, and crawlspaces.
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Brown Recluse: Known for the “violin” shape on its back. These are reclusive but can be dangerous if they find their way into shoes or bedding.
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The “Red Flag”: An abundance of messy, irregular webs near floor level or in dark corners often indicates a spider problem (and likely an underlying insect problem that they are feeding on).
3. Ants: The Persistent Colonizers
Ants are the most common pest complaint in the country. In our region, we frequently see Acrobat ants, Odorous House ants, and the dreaded Fire ant.
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Why they are a problem: Ants are experts at finding even the smallest entry points. Once a “scout” ant finds food, it leaves a pheromone trail for the rest of the colony to follow. Within hours, a small crumb can lead to a kitchen-wide invasion.
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The “Red Flag”: Small piles of “frass” (which looks like sawdust) or visible trails along baseboards and windowsills.
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Prevention Tip: Seal cracks and crevices with caulk and ensure your window screens are in good repair.
Why Professional Pest Control is the Answer
Many homeowners try to tackle these pests with “over-the-counter” sprays. While these might kill a few bugs on contact, they rarely reach the heart of the colony or the nesting site.
At Pinkston’s Pest Control, we use a targeted, integrated approach. We don’t just spray; we inspect your home to find the entry points and nesting grounds. Our treatments are designed to be tough on pests but safe for your family and pets.
Are roaches, spiders, or ants taking over your space? Contact Pinkston’s Pest Control today for a comprehensive inspection and reclaim your home!