Millipedes
Millipedes are often found in damp environments and feed primarily on decomposing plant material. Some species possess piercing mouthparts that allow them to feed on plant juices. Unlike centipedes, millipedes have a large number of legs and a cylindrical body, which aids in their slow movement through soil and leaf litter.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are known for their ability to cause structural damage to wooden structures by excavating galleries for nesting. They have a varied diet, consuming both proteins (such as other insects) and sugars (from sweets). Carpenter ants are commonly found in both urban and natural environments.
Beetles
Beetles are highly diverse and can infest a wide range of materials. They feed on dried foods, spices, hair, leather, and even books. Some beetle species can bore into wooden furniture and, in rare cases, metal objects such as tin foil or lead sheets. Their destructive feeding habits can lead to significant damage.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are notorious for their resilience and adaptability. They are often seen in kitchens where they forage for food. It’s not uncommon to find multiple queens in a single infestation, accompanied by numerous worker cockroaches. Their presence can indicate a serious hygiene issue and potential health risks.
Earwigs
Earwigs are characterized by their forceps-like pincers (cerci) on the abdomen and membranous wings folded beneath short forewings. They are typically found in moist, sheltered environments and can be identified by their unique body structure and behavior.
Hexapods
Hexapods, including collembolans, are small, free-living organisms that thrive in moist conditions. They indirectly contribute to the decomposition of organic matter by fragmenting it and controlling soil microbial communities, though they do not decompose organic matter directly.
Marsupials
Opossums are small to medium-sized marsupials native to the Americas. The largest species can exceed the size of a large house cat, while the smallest are comparable in size to a mouse. They are known for their adaptability and can be found in a variety of habitats.
Raccoons
The raccoon, also known as the North American raccoon, is a medium-sized mammal native to North America. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in urban and rural environments. Raccoons are known for their dexterity and intelligence, often getting into garbage and other food sources.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are significant pests in many communities due to their ability to transmit diseases. They are attracted to humans and typically feed during the daytime as well as at dusk and dawn. Their presence can lead to discomfort and health issues, such as mosquito-borne diseases.
Rodents
Rodents are omnivorous and have a varied diet that includes seeds, fruits, leaves, fungi, and even small invertebrates and vertebrates. They are common pests that can cause damage to property and spread diseases through their droppings and urine.
Scorpions
Scorpions are opportunistic predators that primarily hunt small arthropods, but larger species can also kill small lizards and mice. Their sting can be painful and may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. They are typically found in dry, rocky environments.
Silverfish
Silverfish are nocturnal insects that feed on materials containing polysaccharides, such as starches and dextrins found in book bindings, adhesives, and other items. They are known for causing damage to paper products, textiles, and stored food items.
Spiders
Spiders are adaptable predators that can survive extreme conditions, including prolonged drought and scarcity of food. They play a crucial role in controlling insect populations but can be a concern for those who have arachnophobia or are sensitive to their bites.