When it comes to pest control, biting insects are high on most homeowners’ priority lists. The itching and discomfort that come from flea, tick, and mite bites can be avoided with the right preventive measures. To make sure you’re using the right pest removal options, identify which type of bug you have in the guide below.

Fleas

Fleas are tiny blood-sucking insects that crawl and jump to get onto their prey. They prefer to live on furry animals, but will bite humans in a pinch. When they find an animal to feed on, they stay on the skin, living and breeding there. Since they often enter homes on pets, pest control measures start with flea treatment for your cat or dog, either over the counter or from a vet.

Ticks

Ticks are much larger bugs that can’t jump at all. Instead, they wait outside, sitting on plants, until a human or animal brushes past, so they can grab on. Then ticks bite and stay in one spot until they have drunk enough blood, at which point they fall off. The best pest control methods are staying out of weeds and brush, checking yourself and pets for ticks before you go inside, and carefully removing them when found. Treat your yard if necessary as well.

Mites

Unlike ticks and fleas, mites are a large, diverse group of bugs, many of which are harmless. However, some types are parasitic, living on or burrowing into skin. Mites don’t jump, but can be picked up from the environment or other infected individuals. Treatment may require prescription medication.

If your home or yard has a problem with biting insects, call the licensed and insured Aloha Pest Solutions for pest control. Based in Kahului, HI, and serving the island of Maui for more than 10 years, they provide extermination and pest prevention for a wide range of rodents and bugs, as well as wildlife removal when needed. Plus, they offer a satisfaction guarantee to ensure your home is safe once more. To make an appointment for inspection or treatment, call (808) 877-3100, or reach out online for a free estimate.