Pests in and around the Southern Home (SP486)

Urban Pests and Pest Management

P. G. Koehler and R. M. Pereira

A UF/IFAS numbered publication for General Public and Homeowner audience(s). in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Integrated Pest Management

Using Pesticides Safely in and around the Southern Home

P. G. Koehler

This document provides guidelines for the safe use of pesticides in and around homes in the southern United States. It covers various pesticide formulations, including liquids, gases, dusts, granules, and toxic baits, and their application methods. The document emphasizes the importance of following label instructions, protecting people and pets from exposure, and preventing environmental contamination. It also discusses the symptoms of pesticide poisoning, safety precautions for applicators, and special considerations for vulnerable populations such as infants, children, the elderly, and individuals with medical conditions.

Insecticides Used in the Urban Environment: Mode of Action

S. M. Valles and P. G. Koehler

This document explains the modes of action of various insecticides used in urban environments. It categorizes insecticides based on their effects on the nervous system, energy production, cuticle production, endocrine system, and water balance. The article details how different chemicals, such as pyrethroids, carbamates, and organophosphates, disrupt insect physiology, leading to toxicity and death. It also highlights the specific mechanisms through which these insecticides operate, providing a comprehensive understanding of their biological impacts. First publication date: September 1997.

How to Buy Pest Control Services

Phil Koehler and Roberto Pereira

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet for General Public and Homeowner audience(s). in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Integrated Pest Management

Insect Identification Service

Lyle J. Buss

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet.

Insect Identification Form

Lyle J. Buss

If you find an insect you can't identify, you are welcome to collect a specimen and send it to the UF/IFAS Insect Identification Lab. All specimens must be accompanied by the Insect Identification Lab's Sample Submission Form. This publication includes a fillable pdf of that form. Diagnosis of submitted samples costs $15 per sample, which can be paid via an enclosed check or money order made payable to the University of Florida, or via credit card or Google Pay. Payment is required before a diagnostic report can be provided. The Insect Identification Lab website, https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/InsectID/, provides more information.

Bed Bugs and Blood-Sucking Conenose

P. G. Koehler, R. M. Pereira, M. P. Lehnert, and J. Hertz

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet for General Public audience(s).

Fleas

P. G. Koehler, R. M. Pereira, and J. W. Diclaro II

This document provides an overview of fleas, including their biology, life cycle, and the health issues they cause. Fleas are small, blood-sucking insects that can infest pets and homes, causing itching and irritation. The document details the flea’s life stages, from eggs to adults, and emphasizes the importance of treating both pets and their environments to control infestations. It also discusses various treatment methods, including on-animal treatments and premise treatments, to effectively manage and prevent flea problems. Date first printed July 1993.

Head Lice

R. W. Baldwin, P. G. Koehler, J. W. Diclaro II, and F. M. Oi

Body Lice and Pubic Lice

C. W. Scherer, P. G. Koehler, and J. W. Diclaro II

This document provides an overview of body lice and pubic lice, detailing their biology, transmission, symptoms, and treatment. Body lice, which can transmit diseases like typhus, are less common in the U.S., while pubic lice are a significant nuisance. Both types of lice are blood-sucking insects that cause itching and irritation. Treatment involves washing clothing and bedding in hot water and using medicated shampoos or creams. The document emphasizes the importance of hygiene and alerting sexual partners in cases of pubic lice infestation. 

Mites That Attack Humans

P. G. Koehler and A. Chaskopoulou

This document provides an overview of mites that attack humans, including household, bird, insect, rodent, scabies, and house dust mites. It details their biology, life cycles, and the health issues they cause, such as skin irritation and dermatitis. Control methods include eliminating nests, using space sprays, and maintaining hygiene. The document emphasizes the importance of consulting professionals for severe infestations and allergic reactions. Publication date: April 1993.

Chiggers

P. G. Koehler, F. M. Oi, and A. Chaskopoulou

This document provides an overview of chiggers, detailing their biology, life cycle, and the effects of their bites. Chiggers, or “red bugs,” are larvae of mites that cause intense itching and welts on human skin. They do not transmit diseases in Florida. The document explains their preferred habitats, methods for controlling infestations, and treatment options for bites, including the use of repellents and insecticides. Emphasis is placed on hygiene and protective measures to prevent chigger bites and manage affected areas. Publication date: May 1991.

Mosquito-Borne Dog Heartworm Disease

J. K. Nayar and C. R. Connelly

This document provides an overview of mosquito-borne dog heartworm disease, caused by the filarial nematode Dirofilaria immitis. It details the lifecycle of the parasite, which requires both dogs and mosquitoes to develop. The disease affects the heart and major blood vessels, leading to severe health issues in dogs. The document also covers the distribution of heartworm disease, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for dogs, as well as prevention strategies. Additionally, it discusses heartworm disease in cats and humans, highlighting differences in infection and clinical signs. Publication date: July 1990

Use and Application of Insect Repellents

P. G. Koehler, R. M. Pereira, and R. A. Allen

This document discusses the use and application of insect repellents, focusing on DEET and its alternatives. DEET has been effective for over 45 years but has potential adverse effects. New repellents like picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus offer similar protection with fewer side effects. The article provides guidelines for selecting and applying DEET products, minimizing exposure, and using repellents on children. It also highlights the importance of reading labels and following instructions to ensure safe and effective use. Publication date: March 1994. 

Biting Flies

J. B. Pitzer, P. G. Koehler and J. W. Diclaro II

This document provides an overview of various biting flies in Florida, including no-see’ums, black flies, stable flies, horse flies, and deer flies. It details their life cycles, habitats, and the impact of their bites on humans and animals. The document also discusses control measures, such as environmental management, protective clothing, and the use of repellents and insecticides, to mitigate the nuisance and health risks posed by these pests. Publication date: April 1991

American Dog Tick, Dermacentor variabilis (Say) (Arachnida: Ixodida: Ixodidae)

Wai-Han Chan and Phillip E. Kaufman

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Integrated Pest Management

Lyme Disease

P. E. Kaufman, P. G. Koehler, J. F. Butler, and A. Chaskopoulou

Mange

P. G. Koehler and A. Chaskopoulou

This document provides an overview of mange, a skin condition caused by burrowing mites. It describes the types of mange affecting various animals, including dogs, cats, and humans, and details the symptoms, life cycle, and transmission methods of mange mites. The document emphasizes the importance of veterinary treatment and proper hygiene to prevent and manage mange. It also discusses specific types of mange, such as sarcoptic, demodectic, and ear mange, highlighting their unique characteristics and treatment options. Publication date: February 1993.

Stinging or Venomous Insects and Related Pests

P. G. Koehler and J. W. Diclaro II

This document provides an overview of stinging or venomous insects and related pests in Florida. It categorizes venoms into four types: vesicating, neurotoxic, cytolytic/hemolytic, and hemorrhagic. The article emphasizes the importance of allergic reactions, which are often more severe than the toxic effects. It outlines immediate actions to take following stings or bites and offers prevention tips. Additionally, it describes common venomous arthropods, including bees, wasps, scorpions, spiders, fire ants, velvet ants, wheel bugs, blister beetles, and stinging caterpillars, along with control measures for each. Publication date: October 1994.

Stinging and Venomous Caterpillars of the Southeast

Rebecca Perry and Adam Dale