Finding Infestations by Smell

Most homeowners expect to find bugs or rodents in their home when they see one crawling across the floor. Spotting droppings or dead bugs is also an indicator. But not every infestation is going to leave visual signs. Instead, some bugs produce a smell that can clue you in that you have an infestation.

If you have noticed an unexplainable odor around your home, pests might be to blame. Here are some of the most common odor-causing pests in Northern Virginia and what odors they release.

Infestations that Produce Odors

Certain bugs and rodents can produce odors in a variety of ways. As the number of them living in your home increases, this odor can intensify enough to become noticeable. The pest problems that cause odors in places like Bristow and Gainesville include:

• Cockroaches – The smell of roaches comes from oleic acid, a chemical they produce to communicate with other roaches. Their droppings and decaying roaches can also add to that smell, leading to a scent that most people describe as musty and oily.
• Mice and Rats – Rodents cause a smell of ammonia that comes from the urine and droppings they leave behind. Another odor can come from rodents that die in your walls, basement, or attic as their body decays.
• Termites – Subterranean termites live in damp conditions and moist soil, which often smells like mold or mildew. If you have noticed moldy smell, it could mean a leak, but it may also be a good reason to get a termite inspection.
• Bed Bugs – Bed bugs use hormones and pheromones to communicate with each other. These chemicals cause a distinct odor, which people often say smells like cilantro or moldy berries.

One of these odors usually means the infestation is relatively advanced. If you notice a bug smell and suspect a pest infestation, you will want to call a pest control company as soon as possible before it gets worse. ExtermPRO can determine if an odor is in fact an infestation, and choose the most effective treatment to get rid of them. If you need pest control in Virginia, reach out to our team today