Pest Identification System & Field Guide

Lives entirely inside dry structural timber without needing soil contact. Colonies excavate galleries within framing, eaves, fascia, and roof sheathing.

Nests in subterranean soil and builds protected mud shelter tubes over concrete foundations to feed on structural wall studs and subfloors.

Exceptional climbers nesting in attics, soffits, palm trees, and citrus groves. Known for gnawing through electrical wires and polluting blown-in insulation.

Can squeeze through openings as narrow as a dime (1/4 inch). Rapidly contaminates food prep surfaces, pantries, and subfloor utility penetrations.

Subterranean excavator causing severe destruction across lawns, agricultural avocado groves, irrigation pipes, and ornamental landscaping throughout Fallbrook and Temecula.

Forms massive interconnected multi-queen supercolonies across Southern California. Trails aggressively into plumbing voids and kitchens during hot spells.

Does not eat wood, but excavates smooth nest galleries inside moist or decayed wood, exacerbating structural failure in patio framing and eaves.

Highly venomous spider favoring dark, undisturbed locations like water meter boxes, garage corners, patio furniture, and crawlspaces.

Common in rocky foothill and valley areas (Temecula, Murrieta, Fallbrook). Can climb vertical stucco and slip through door weatherstripping.

Nocturnal blood-feeding parasite that conceals itself inside mattress seams, headboards, electrical outlets, and baseboards.

Indoor specialist that breeds exponentially inside kitchen appliances, refrigerator motor housings, and cabinet hinge joints. Spreads allergens and pathogens.

Moisture-loving species inhabiting floor drains, water meter vaults, damp crawlspaces, and sewer cleanouts.

High coastal presence (Oceanside) driven by marine humidity. Feeds on carbohydrates, wallpaper glue, book bindings, and stored linen fibers.

Aggressive territory defenders that construct open-comb umbrella nests beneath roof eaves, patio covers, deck beams, and attic vents.

Parasitic blood-feeders brought into yards by coyotes, squirrels, and pets. Infiltrates carpets, upholstery, and turf.

Native recluse species inhabiting arid brushlands, woodpiles, crawlspaces, and outbuildings throughout Southern California.