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Insects Found in Pennsylvania

Insects make a very large number of species found on Earth. The Smithsonian Institute estimates there are about 10 quintillion individual insects alive at any one time, which accounts for nearly the largest amount of biomass of the terrestrial animals. Pennsylvania contains an estimated 425 million animals per acre, with 209 being mites. Also, there are an estimated 73,000 species of insects that have not been described in the United States. With such a large number of insects not found yet, it is possible to describe a species that has not yet been discovered. Every region has certain insects that are more common than others depending on their climate; Pennsylvania is no exception to this rule.

Beetles
- Beetles are one of the most diverse classification of insects found around the world. The Larder Beetle is commonly found in the pantry and kitchen. This beetle feeds and lays its eggs in the same medium, which includes pet food, corn meal and other dead insects. It is a half-inch in length and dark brown. Another common beetle found in Pennsylvania is the Saw-Toothed Grain Beetle which is also found in the kitchen and pantry. This smaller beetle, about 1/16 inch, is found in flour, pasta and cereal. Due to the individual size of the pest, it may be unnoticed until there are a large number of them.
Cockroaches
- Pennsylvania has some cockroach species that are commonly found wherever there is a source of food. The Brown-Banded Cockroach is about a half-inch in size, but can easily spread throughout an entire building or house. These are commonly found in apartments and homes in the area. The American Cockroach can grow to be 1-1/2 inches in size, usually found in basements and grocery stores. This type of cockroach prefers to live in wet areas.
Ticks and Fleas
- Those who enjoy outdoor activities or have pets have to be knowledgeable about ticks and fleas. Ticks are commonly found in shrubs or wooded areas and feed on the blood of animals. Even though they are small in size, 1/8 inch at the most, they can spread diseases, such as Lyme disease. Fleas are dark brown, about 1/4 inch. Cats and dogs are common places they like to live, but there a few that will feed on other animals and humans. If you have outdoor pets in the area, it is important to protect them against these pests, which will also protect the home from a potential infestation. Contact your local veterinarian for more information about medication options.
Termites
- Another insect worth mentioning that lives in the Pennsylvania area is the termite. These insects are about 1/4 inch at the most, creamy white in color, do not have wings, have a wide "waist" area and live in social communes. Since they make their home inside of wood, they pose a potential threat to the structural integrity of a home. A home inspection by a pest control professional is a wise decision as these insects may live undetected until a detailed inspection has been completed.

Insects & Science