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Biting insects

Common biting insects: ticks, fleas, mites, and lice

Biting insects can cause discomfort, irritation, and, in some cases, health concerns for people and pets. Learning about the common types of ticks, fleas, mites, and lice found across the U.S. can help you take steps to protect your property and loved ones. 

Although these pests are small, their bites can cause itching and infection. We can help assess the situation, determine which pest you are dealing with, and provide tailored solutions to tackle an infestation.

Quick facts about fleas and ticks

  • Fleas are small, jumping, wingless, and often live indoors on pets. Ticks crawl around outdoors in grass or brush, attach to skin, and feed slowly.
  • Fleas may spread tapeworms or bacteria. Ticks can carry serious illnesses like Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
  • Infestations can affect commercial environments (e.g., veterinary clinics, boarding facilities, offices), requiring professional treatment.
  • If you have pets, consult a veterinarian if you suspect and infestation. 
  • Treatments include IGRs for fleas and exterior perimeter treatments for ticks.

 

Identify common biting insects with Presto-X

Many common biting insects can be found across the U.S., each with its own habits and preferred hosts. Recognizing which species you’re dealing with helps choose the proper control approach. Our technicians are trained to identify the various types of ticks and fleas that commonly infest homes and businesses.

Learn more about the most common biting insects we encounter and how they can impact your property.

Rodent control for your business

Rodents can attract different flea, mite, and tick species, creating additional pest problems. Our professional rodent control services can help identify entry points and reduce the risk of secondary infestations from parasites carried by rats and mice.

By working with Presto-X, you can help protect your employees, customers, and inventory from unwanted pests.

 

Business consequences of biting insects

For businesses, a flea, mite, or tick infestation is more than just a pest issue; it’s a customer experience issue. The presence of pests in a waiting room, workspace, or customer-facing area can create lasting negative impressions. Employees distracted by bites or concerned about their health may be less productive. 

In pet-related businesses like groomers, boarding facilities, or veterinary clinics, these critters can spread rapidly and damage reputations. Professional extermination is key to protecting your space and maintaining peace of mind.

Frequently asked questions

There are more than 90 tick species and over 300 flea species found across the United States. Not all are pests, but several can bite humans and animals.

Not all types of fleas and ticks transmit disease. However, some can carry bacteria or parasites that may affect people or pets. If you notice bites or find these pests on your property, it's best to seek professional help.

  • Fleas can transmit tapeworms and bacteria such as Bartonella (which causes cat scratch fever)
  • Ticks are infamous for carrying Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other serious illnesses.

Yes, they can. Though small in size, these two pests can cause big problems once they make their way indoors or into business environments. Fleas are typically brought inside on pets or through infested soft goods, while ticks are most often picked up outdoors in grassy or wooded areas. Once indoors, fleas can reproduce quickly and become difficult to manage without help.

Watch for pets scratching more than usual, small dark specks on bedding, or live fleas jumping on carpets. 

Ticks may attach to pets or people after spending time outdoors. They like to crawl on clothing, skin, or in pet fur. They embed into the skin, which can appear as small, dark bumps

Some species can carry germs that may affect people or pets, but not every insect poses this risk. If you experience unusual reactions to bites, consult a healthcare professional.

Fleas can enter on wildlife, rodents, or visitors’ pets, even if you don’t have animals in the home. Once inside, they can multiply quickly if conditions are right.

They can cause stress, discomfort, and skin irritation, and some may carry germs. If you notice signs of pest activity, we can assess the issue, identify the pest, and recommend the best treatment to address it.

Contact your local Presto-X branch today to book your free pest inspection

Benefit from our extensive experience protecting businesses just like yours. Learn more about our commercial pest control services.