The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) collaborated with the University of Florida Bugs Without Borders SurveyIt surveyed 375 pest management professionals across the US to identify the top trends they noticed last year. One centers around the main findings Invasive insects as a growing threat to homes across the country. More than 40 percent of pest management professionals have reported an increase in problems resulting from invasive bugs in the past year. Because these insects have no natural pathogens or predators in this country, they multiply quickly and cause more damage than native species. And unfortunately, these aren’t just outdoor problems; These insects are also finding their way into homes.
Invasive species are spreading, wreaking havoc on ecosystems and your home, Dr. Jim Fredericks says, Board Certified Entomologist and Senior Vice President of Public Affairs National Pest Management Assoc. “Invasive species are tough, adaptable, and in some cases can threaten your garden, the structure of your home, and even your health,” he warns. A big reason for this is global trade and travel, as these pests get inside shipping containers, on plants and on outdoor equipment. “Also, the weather has an effect,” says Fredericks. “As of our spring and summer 2026 The bug barometer“Using weather, climate and insect data to predict insect activity by region, we’re seeing more invasive species appear earlier and in greater numbers as we get consecutive unusually warm days earlier in the season.”
Here are the top five Invasive insects The report identifies and how to prevent and remove them if they are in your neighborhood.
1. Red Imported Fire Ant
Region: Mid-Atlantic, including Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina, plus much of the South and Southwest.
Original: Native to South America, they are introduced into new areas through potted plants, shrubs and trees.
Problems: Interfere with a fire ant The nest can cause them to bite, resulting in painful welts. “Red imported fire ants are a serious health hazard,” warns Fredericks. “Their bites are painful, they attack in series, and they can cause severe allergic reactions.”
Prevention: Fredericks recommends keeping your yard tidy by cleaning up any fallen fruit and removing any standing water. Even in the bird bath. “These insects are also drawn to electrical equipment such as HVAC units, so pay close attention to these areas and contact an expert at the first signs of fire ant activity,” he explains.
2. Brown marmorated stink bug
Region: Eastern half of the US as well as California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
Original: First introduced to the US from eastern Asia in the mid-1990s.
Problems: Brown marmorated stink bugs Fredericks warns that large numbers move indoors during the colder months. “Once they arrive, they emit a strong odor and can damage fruits and garden plants.”
Prevention: “Repair or replace any cracked window and door screensFredericks suggests. These are areas where stink bugs can enter buildings.” Other places where they can sneak in include siding, utility pipes, chimneys, electrical outlets, light switches, ceiling fans, and skylights. From Get rid of stink bugs In your home, use a vacuum cleaner, but discard the bag to prevent lingering odors.
3. Argentine ant
Region: Southeastern states, California and Hawaii. Less widespread infestations also occur in Arizona, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, and the Pacific Northwest.
Original: Originally native to Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bolivia, and southern Brazil, they can now be found in many locations around the world, including South Africa, New Zealand, Japan, Australia, the United States, and Europe. Argentine ants are believed to have originally been introduced to the continental US in the late 1800s by coffee ships from Brazil to New Orleans.
Problems: Fredericks says Argentine ants can contaminate food and spread bacteria after passing through garbage, sewage and decaying materials. “In large numbers, they have also harmed poultry and destroyed bees, reducing bee populations and affecting the health of our ecosystems.”
Prevention: Fredericks recommends getting rid of any standing water around your property, storing food in tightly sealed containers, and Cut back trees And the bushes are far from your house, because ants often use the branches as a bridge to get inside. Also, keep firewood at least 20 feet away from your home to prevent ants from using it as a nesting site.
4. Multicolored Asian lady beetle
Region: The entire US
Original: Native to eastern Asia, including China, Japan, Mongolia, and southern Siberia, these bugs were introduced to the US by the USDA in the late 20th century for agricultural pest control, but have also established themselves through accidental importation.
Problems: The iridescent Asian lady beetle often rescues homeowners, Fredericks says. “That’s what they look like Familiar ladybugsBut thousands invade homes and release a foul-smelling yellow liquid that stains surfaces and can trigger allergies or asthma.”
Prevention: Fredericks suggests, “Repair or replace damaged screens because even the smallest tears can give them an easy way in. Also, seal cracks around doors and windows and make sure attic vents are properly screened. If you find Asian lady beetles In your home, remove them with a vacuum.
5. Asian cockroach
Region: Southeastern US
Original: Originally from Southeast Asia, this cockroach has spread globally and thrives mostly there Hot, humid climate.
Problems: Unlike common roaches, Asian cockroaches fly and are attracted to light. “When inside, they contaminate food, and their droppings and peeling skin can also set off asthma and allergy symptoms,” Fredericks notes. While they don’t bite or sting, they are annoying when they appear on illuminated surfaces like TV screens, computers, and lampshades. They can also spread bacteria, possibly salmonella or E. It causes diseases like coli.
Prevention: Fredericks recommends cutting back on outdoor lighting near doors and other entry points because these insects are highly attracted to light. “Keep plants and mulch away from the foundation of your home and understand that they breed in leaf litter and debris.” It is also a smart idea Seal entry points Store food properly in gaps and sealed containers, such as around doors, windows and utility lines.
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