NoSeeUms are scientifically known as Ceratopogonidae, and if you have ever come into contact with one of these little flies--or a host of them--you would most likely know it. While some subspecies of NoSeeUms consume only nectar, most of them survive on blood and therefore do pose a bite risk for humans. Their saliva triggers an allergic reaction in human skin, resulting in an itchy welt that may persist for up to a week! Fortunately for us here in The Villages and surrounding areas, NoSeeUms are a rarity. They prefer mountainous or beach habitats and are more commonly found in coastal areas, especially Southern Florida. However, we do have a few tiny local pests that are often confused with NoSeeUms, such as Ghost Ants, White Footed Ants, Pharoah ants, drain flies, and Gnats, among others. These insects are among the smallest pests that we deal with here in Central Florida, and because they are so small and difficult to see, they are often mistakenly grouped under the name “NoSeeUm.”

​ If you come across an insect that you believe may be a NoSeeUm, chances are its not, but you can always contact your Squished pest control professional to be sure. We can accurately diagnose the exact insect you’re dealing with and treat your home accordingly. 

Spiders. Ah spiders. These creepy crawlies are not insects at all. While insects have six legs, spiders have eight, and they have no antennae and no wings so they can’t fly...whew!! Some spiders like wet environments like those found in basements and crawl spaces. Others like dry, warm areas such as air vents, upper walls near the ceiling, and attics. Most of the time they hide in dark areas, feed on insects, and spin their famous webs.
Spiders are particularly hard to gid rid of. Don’t go it alone, call SQUISHED and let us handle the problem for you!​

Carpenter ants, also known as sugar ants, are large ants indigenous to to Central Florida. They build nests inside dead, damp wood, creating tunnels chewed out with their powerful mandibles. Contrary to popular belief, they do not consume the wood, as termites do. Sometimes, carpenter ants can even hollow out trees. They also commonly infest wooden buildings, and are a nuisance, causing significant structural damage. Certain parts of a house, such as around and under windows, roof, deck and porch, are more likely to be infested by carpenter ants because these areas are prone to moisture.
These little creatures can cause BIG damage! At SQUISHED we’re available to come to your home or business, evaluate the situation and come up with a plan of action.​

PESTS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

Most rodents are small animals with rounded bodies, short limbs and long tails. They are known for their sharp incisors which they use very effectively to gnaw, dig and defend themselves. They are opportunistic eaters and are usually very social, living in complex societies. While some species can be considered cute and are kept as family pets, others, particularly the brown rat, the black rat, and the house mouse are serious pests. They eat and spoil our food and spread serious diseases.
Rodent infestations in in your home or place of business can prove extremely destructive. Outside the home, infestations cause serious damage. They are extremely difficult to eliminate. Call the professionals at SQUISHED to deal with this potentially dangerous problem.​

The American cockroach measures between 1 and 2 inches in length and occurs throughout Central Florida. It favors basements, sewers, tunnels, and drainage systems. This roach is commonly found in buildings such as restaurants, grocers, bakeries, anywhere food is prepared and stored. The American cockroach is a rapid breeder and can develop to enormous numbers. Outdoors, American cockroaches are found in moist shady areas such as hollow trees, wood piles, mulch and are occasionally found under roof shingles and in attics. Roaches that dwell outside will wander indoors to search for food and water or to avoid extreme heat, cold and other weather conditions. They migrate into houses and apartments from sewers via the plumbing, and from trees and shrubs located alongside buildings. During the day the American cockroach, which responds negatively to light, rests in dark, damp places like water pipes, sinks, baths, and toilets.
Whether you suffer from a roach infestation or catch a glimpse of just one or two, call SQUISHED for your FREE review and estimate!