What Are the Scariest Bugs in Birmingham?
Creeping in the attic, crawling around the basement, and hiding in the walls could be something spookier than anything you’ll ever see in a scary movie. We’ve all been frightened by a bug or two, but have you ever heard of the scariest bugs in Birmingham? If you want to get spooked before Halloween, these insects and arachnids will surely give you a good scare!
Birmingham’s Scariest Bugs: What To Watch Out For
Black Widow
Black widows are easy to spot because they’re black with a distinctive red spot on their lower bodies. They’re most commonly lurking around the coast and the most southern parts of Alabama, although they do prefer warm and arid environments. Beware when you’re on a hike, working in your backyard, or even taking a stroll through the park—they can be anywhere and everywhere!
A black widow bites with neurotoxic venom that can cause some nervous system symptoms, like muscle spasms, twitching, and localized irritation and swelling. Still, these symptoms usually subside for the most part by the next day, making black widow bites substantially less harmful than those from the next spooky spider on our list.
Brown Recluse
Although they’re less frightening-looking than a black widow, brown recluse bites are far more damaging. A venomous bite from a brown recluse necrotizes (kills) the skin’s tissue. If left untreated, it will leave a large hole in the skin. Even with treatment, brown recluse bites usually leave a scar.
Brown recluses are everywhere in the late summer and early fall, hiding in dark places just out of plain sight—under porches, furniture, closets, corners, etc. They bite people when they feel trapped, which is often when people unknowingly sit on them or in the way of their entrance/exit to a hiding spot.
Saddleback Caterpillar
Some people might be charmed by the saddleback caterpillar’s green “saddle” (some green markings that cover its back), but most others would see its spike-covered horns and know it’s probably something to stay away from.
These small but dangerous creatures are covered in spiky bristles, and if you touch them, you’ll feel a terrible sting, extreme pain and discomfort, swelling, and, in severe cases, nausea or difficulty breathing.
In other words, do NOT touch these guys if you see them, even though they look like they have on cute green sweaters.
Fire Ants
If you’ve lived in Alabama, you’ve seen fire ants. Although they might not look like the scariest bugs, their sting will make you think twice. They look like your average ants, but they’re a brownish-red color and highly aggressive. Most people who are stung experience mild pain and skin irritation, but the toxins they release have proven to be fatal in those with particular allergies.
If you find a fire ant bed in your yard, contact a pest control expert to get rid of them immediately—especially if you have allergies or pets that stay outside.
Mosquitoes
Another common bug in Alabama is mosquitoes. They love our subtropical climate, which allows them to stay active for most months of the year. Although they’re annoying and their bites typically cause mild irritation, they’re known to carry a range of dangerous diseases. The most threatening is the Zika virus, which causes mild flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, can be fatal.
Mosquitoes are one of our most common pest problems. For more guidance on preventing and getting rid of mosquitoes, check out our Home and Outdoor Mosquito Control in Birmingham blog.
Cow Killer Ant
Another ant not to be messed with is the cow killer ant. It doesn’t fly and has a thick, fuzzy red and black body. Despite its name, it’s a type of wasp known for its excruciating sting. While the sting is agonizing, it’s not life-threatening. Cow killer ants are not aggressive, and they only attack if they are provoked or feel like they’re in danger.
Scared by Bugs in Your Home?
Vulcan Termite & Pest Control has solutions for all of your bug problems, even the scariest bugs. We offer specialized treatments to keep your home pest-free. Contact us online or call (205) 663-4200 for a free inspection today!