Japantown Pest Control

Most Common Pests in San Jose, CA

Whether you live in Pleasanton, Fremont, or Hayward, we are here to help. Our technicians live and work near the same communities as you do, and have a deep understanding of the most common pests that cause problems in the area. We service the entire Greater San Jose and Oakland region, including Santa Clara Valley, Concord, and Berkeley.

Termites

The most common termite species in the region are Drywood termites and subterranean termites. Regardless of species, termites chew through wood in search of cellulose, their primary food source. 

Cockroaches

Cockroaches aren't just an appalling sight, they can also carry disease-causing pathogens. You can typically find them lurking in a variety of places in your home, feasting off of any crumbs you may leave behind and obtaining water from leaky faucets. These pests live behind cabinets, in electronics, under sinks, and behind refrigerators.

The most common species of cockroaches in the San Jose and Oakland area are German and Oriental cockroaches. These pests remain active year-round. However, they are especially prevalent in the spring and summer months.

Earwigs

Contrary to the myth surrounding how these insects got their name, earwigs most likely won't crawl into your ears. However, their presence can be alarming if you find them in your home. These pests can hide in basements, attics, and wherever else they can find a damp, dark place. They also lurk in cluttered areas, such as a pile of newspapers or magazines, or even in laundry baskets. These pests are most active at night. They become especially noticeable in the summer and early fall.

Rats/Mice

Rodents can become a serious problem for residents in the San Jose and Oakland area. Rodents like mice and rats can damage your home and belongings, nest in your walls, and gnaw on electrical wires. These pests can also carry disease-causing pathogens. The most common rodents in San Jose and Oakland, CA are Norway rats, roof rats, and house mice. If you suspect rodents in your home, it's important to deal with them as soon as possible, as they can breed rapidly.

Bed Bugs

It's easy to bring bed bugs into your home, but infestations can be challenging to eliminate. These pests are notorious for hitching a ride on a suitcase from your travels, or on furnishings you may pick up at a yard sale or swap meet. Bed bugs feed on human blood and are typically active at night. Some of their more common hiding places include mattress seams, headboard cracks, and box springs. Depending on where the infested item is located in your home, you can also discover these invaders in chairs, sofas, under loose wallpaper, and even behind electrical outlet covers.

Silverfish

Silverfish are unpleasant pests that tend to hide in damp, warm, and dark places. They can slither around your home through various cracks and crevices, thanks to their long, slender bodies. Silverfish can appear in your bedroom, kitchen, basement, or attic. They usually come out during the night. However, if you have a serious infestation, you can occasionally discover them during the day.

Ants

The East Bay area is host to a number of species of ants, including the Argentine ant, Pharaoh ant, odorous house ant, and pavement ant. These ants can make their way into your home in search of food and potentially contaminate items in your pantry.