Pest Identification Library

The brown rat is the most common rat species in the UK and a serious pest in both domestic and commercial settings. Highly adaptable, they burrow under buildings, travel through drainage systems, and gnaw through almost any material.

House mice are the most widespread rodent pest in the UK. Small and agile, they can squeeze through gaps as small as 6mm and contaminate far more food than they consume.

The European hornet is the UK's largest social wasp, reaching up to 35mm in length. They build large paper nests in hollow trees, roof spaces, wall cavities, and outbuildings. Though less common than common wasps, their size and colony aggression make them a serious hazard.

Common wasps build paper nests in roof spaces, wall cavities, and gardens. A mature nest can contain up to 10,000 workers and poses a serious sting risk, particularly to those with allergies.

Bed bugs are small, blood-feeding parasites that hide in mattresses, bed frames, and furniture. They are not a sign of poor hygiene — they travel easily on luggage, clothing, and second-hand furniture.

The German cockroach is the most common cockroach species found in UK buildings. It thrives in warm, humid environments such as kitchens, commercial catering premises, and boiler rooms.

The black garden ant is the most common ant species in the UK. Colonies can number in the thousands and are typically found nesting in soil, under paving slabs, and in wall cavities. They become a problem when foraging workers enter homes and businesses in search of food, particularly sweet or fatty substances.

The common clothes moth is a widespread household pest responsible for damage to natural fibres including wool, cashmere, silk, and fur. Unlike most moths, they avoid light and prefer dark, undisturbed areas such as wardrobes, loft storage, and under carpets. It is the larvae — not the adult moths — that feed on and destroy fabrics.

Feral pigeons are a persistent problem on commercial and residential buildings across East Anglia. Their guano is corrosive, carries disease, and creates slip hazards. Humane proofing is the most effective long-term solution.