Top 10 Most Common Pests in Baton Rouge and How to Get Rid of Them

1. Termites Why They Are a Problem Termites are known as "silent destroyers" because they can cause extensive damage to wooden structures before homeowners notice them. Formosan and subterranean termites are the most common types in Louisiana. How to Get Rid of Them Schedule annual termite inspections . Reduce moisture by fixing leaks and ensuring proper drainage. Use professional termite baiting and treatment plans . 2. Mosquitoes Why They Are a Problem Mosquitoes thrive in Baton Rouge’s warm, wet climate. They carry diseases like West Nile virus, Zika virus, and dengue fever . How to Get Rid of Them Eliminate standing water in yards, gutters, and containers. Use mosquito-repelling plants like citronella and lavender. Consider professional mosquito fogging services during peak seasons. 3. Cockroaches Why They Are a Problem Spread bacteria and contribute to allergies. Thrive in warm, humid environments like kitchens and bathrooms. How to Get Rid of Them Keep your home clean and dry , especially around food storage areas. Use bait stations, gel baits, and insect growth regulators . Call professional pest control for severe infestations. 4. Ants Why They Are a Problem Ants invade homes looking for food and water. Fire ants, common in Louisiana, deliver painful stings. How to Get Rid of Them Use bait traps near entry points. Seal cracks and remove food sources. Schedule professional perimeter treatments for persistent infestations. 5. Rodents (Rats & Mice) Why They Are a Problem Rodents spread diseases and contaminate food. They gnaw on wires, posing a fire hazard. How to Get Rid of Them Seal entry points around the home. Use traps and rodent bait in affected areas. Contact a professional exterminator for ongoing infestations. 6. Spiders Why They Are a Problem Most are harmless, but black widows and brown recluses pose health risks. Their presence can indicate other pest infestations. How to Get Rid of Them Reduce clutter and dust frequently . Use spider-repelling sprays . Call a pest control service for venomous species. 7. Fleas & Ticks Why They Are a Problem Can infest pets and transmit diseases like Lyme disease. Flea bites cause itching and allergic reactions. How to Get Rid of Them Regularly treat pets with flea and tick preventatives. Vacuum carpets and wash bedding frequently. Use professional yard treatments to prevent reinfestation. 8. Fire Ants Why They Are a Problem Aggressive ants with painful stings. Their mounds can damage lawns and outdoor spaces. How to Get Rid of Them Apply fire ant bait around mounds. Use boiling water or insecticide treatments for immediate control. Hire pest control experts for large infestations. 9. Wasps & Hornets Why They Are a Problem Their stings can cause severe allergic reactions . Wasps build nests near homes, increasing the risk of encounters. How to Get Rid of Them Remove food sources like sugary drinks and exposed garbage. Use wasp traps and insecticidal sprays . Hire professionals for safe nest removal . 10. Silverfish Why They Are a Problem They feed on books, clothing, and dry goods. They thrive in humid environments, making Louisiana homes ideal habitats. How to Get Rid of Them Reduce humidity using dehumidifiers . Store food, books, and clothing in sealed containers . Use sticky traps and insecticides in affected areas. Hire the Best Pest Control Company in Baton Rouge ​Baton Rouge is home to many pests that can damage property, spread disease, and cause discomfort. By taking proactive pest control measures —such as keeping your home clean, sealing entry points, and using professional services when necessary—you can protect your home year-round.