As a homeowner in Cedar City, dealing with pests is an inevitable part of life. The region’s climate—hot summers and mild winters—creates the perfect breeding ground for various pests, from ants and spiders to rodents and scorpions. If left unchecked, these pests can damage your property, contaminate food, and even pose health risks.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ The 10 most common pests in Cedar City
✅ Signs of an infestation
✅ DIY prevention tips
✅ When to call a professional pest control service
By the end, you’ll know how to protect your home effectively. Let’s dive in!
1. Ants
Why They’re a Problem
Ants are among the most persistent pests in Cedar City. Species like odorous house ants, carpenter ants, and pavement ants invade homes in search of food and water. While most are just a nuisance, carpenter ants can damage wood structures.
Signs of an Ant Infestation
- Trails of ants leading to food sources
- Small piles of sawdust (from carpenter ants)
- Ant nests in soil, walls, or under flooring
How to Keep Them Out
✔ Seal cracks around windows, doors, and foundations.
✔ Store food in airtight containers (especially sweets and proteins).
✔ Clean spills immediately and take out trash regularly.
✔ Use natural deterrents like vinegar, cinnamon, or peppermint oil.
When to Call a Pro: If ants keep returning despite DIY efforts, a professional can locate and eliminate the nest.
2. Spiders
Why They’re a Problem
While most spiders in Cedar City are harmless, black widows and brown recluses are venomous and dangerous. Other common species like wolf spiders and cellar spiders are mostly just creepy.
Signs of a Spider Problem
- Webs in corners, basements, or garages
- Frequent sightings, especially at night
- Egg sacs in hidden areas
How to Keep Them Out
✔ Reduce clutter (spiders love hiding in piles of boxes or clothes).
✔ Install door sweeps to block entry points.
✔ Use yellow outdoor lighting (attracts fewer insects, reducing spider food).
✔ Regularly dust and vacuum to remove webs and egg sacs.
When to Call a Pro: If you spot venomous spiders or have a severe infestation, professional extermination is safest.
3. Rodents (Mice & Rats)
Why They’re a Problem
Mice and rats spread diseases (like Hantavirus), chew wires (fire hazard), and contaminate food. They’re most active in fall and winter when seeking warmth.
Signs of Rodents
- Droppings near food or in cabinets
- Scratching noises in walls
- Gnaw marks on wires or furniture
How to Keep Them Out
✔ Seal gaps larger than ¼ inch with steel wool or caulk.
✔ Store food in metal/glass containers (they can’t chew through).
✔ Set traps in high-activity areas.
✔ Keep yard debris away from the house (reduces hiding spots).
When to Call a Pro: If traps aren’t working or you hear rodents in walls, professionals use advanced baiting and exclusion techniques.
4. Scorpions
Why They’re a Problem
Cedar City’s Arizona bark scorpion is venomous and painful if stung. They hide in dark, damp areas like garages and bathrooms.
Signs of Scorpions
- Sightings at night (they’re nocturnal)
- Hiding under rocks, logs, or inside shoes
How to Keep Them Out
✔ Eliminate moisture (fix leaks, use dehumidifiers).
✔ Seal cracks around doors, windows, and pipes.
✔ Use a UV flashlight to spot them at night.
✔ Remove debris (rocks, wood piles) near your home.
When to Call a Pro: If you find multiple scorpions indoors, professional treatment is crucial.
5. Cockroaches
Why They’re a Problem
Roaches carry bacteria (like Salmonella) and trigger allergies. Common species in Cedar City include German and American cockroaches.
Signs of Roaches
- Musty odor
- Droppings resembling coffee grounds
- Shed skins in dark areas
How to Keep Them Out
✔ Fix leaks (roaches need water).
✔ Clean kitchens thoroughly (no crumbs or grease).
✔ Use roach baits and gel traps.
✔ Inspect grocery bags and boxes before bringing them inside.
When to Call a Pro: Roaches multiply fast—professional-grade treatments are often needed.
6. Termites
Why They’re a Problem
Termites cause $5 billion+ in U.S. property damage yearly. Cedar City’s subterranean termites are especially destructive.
Signs of Termites
- Mud tubes on foundations
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Discarded wings near windows
How to Keep Them Out
✔ Keep wood (firewood, mulch) away from your home.
✔ Fix moisture issues (termites thrive in damp wood).
✔ Schedule annual inspections (early detection saves thousands).
When to Call a Pro: Termites require professional fumigation or bait systems.
7. Wasps & Bees
Why They’re a Problem
While bees are beneficial, wasps (yellow jackets, paper wasps) are aggressive and can sting repeatedly.
Signs of a Nest
- Buzzing sounds in walls or eaves
- Visible nests (under porches, in attics)
How to Keep Them Out
✔ Seal cracks where they might build nests.
✔ Avoid leaving sweet drinks/food outside.
✔ Wear light-colored clothing (dark colors attract them).
When to Call a Pro: Removing large nests (especially in walls) is dangerous—leave it to experts.
8. Fleas & Ticks
Why They’re a Problem
Fleas infest pets and homes, while ticks spread Lyme disease. They hitchhike indoors via pets or wildlife.
Signs of Fleas/Ticks
- Pets scratching excessively
- Tiny black specks (flea dirt) on carpets
How to Keep Them Out
✔ Treat pets with vet-approved flea/tick prevention.
✔ Vacuum frequently (especially pet areas).
✔ Wash pet bedding in hot water weekly.
When to Call a Pro: Severe infestations may require flea foggers or yard treatments.
9. Bed Bugs
Why They’re a Problem
Bed bugs bite and are notoriously hard to eliminate. They spread via luggage, used furniture, or guests.
Signs of Bed Bugs
- Itchy, red bites in lines
- Blood spots on sheets
- Musty odor
How to Keep Them Out
✔ Inspect hotel rooms when traveling.
✔ Avoid used furniture unless thoroughly cleaned.
✔ Encase mattresses in bed bug-proof covers.
When to Call a Pro: Bed bugs require heat treatments or chemical solutions—DIY rarely works.
10. Mosquitoes
Why They’re a Problem
Mosquitoes spread diseases (West Nile virus) and ruin outdoor activities.
How to Keep Them Out
✔ Remove standing water (birdbaths, gutters).
✔ Use EPA-approved repellents.
✔ Install screens on windows and doors.
When to Call a Pro: For yard misting systems or larvicide treatments.
Final Thoughts: When to Call a Professional Pest Control Service
While DIY methods help, some infestations require professional expertise. If you’re dealing with:
- Recurring pest problems
- Venomous spiders/scorpions
- Structural damage (termites, rodents)
- Large nests (wasps, bees)
…it’s time to call Pest Control in Cedar City. Our safe, effective treatments keep your home pest-free year-round.
📞 Contact us today for a free inspection! 🚀