Not sure what pest you're dealing with? Use this guide as a starting point for common pests found around homes and businesses. If you notice signs of activity and are unsure what they mean, Clarkes can help you identify the appropriate inspection or pest-control service.
Termites
Appearance
Pale, soft-bodied insects 3–6mm long. Workers are cream-coloured; soldiers have darker heads with mandibles.
Signs of Activity
- Mud tubes on walls or foundations
- Hollow-sounding timber when tapped
- Discarded wings near windows and doors
- Tight-fitting doors or warped frames
- Bubbling or cracked paint on timber
Can cause severe structural damage if left untreated.
Spiders
Appearance
Spider species vary widely in size, colour and behaviour. If you cannot confidently identify a spider, avoid handling it directly.
Signs of Activity
- Webs in corners, under eaves or in garden areas
- Egg sacs attached to webs
- Live sightings, especially at night
- Shed exoskeletons near webs
Some spiders can pose health risks. Avoid handling unidentified spiders and seek appropriate help if there is an immediate safety concern.
Rodents (Rats & Mice)
Appearance
Mice are small (6–10cm body); rats are larger (20–25cm body). Brown or grey fur with scaled tails.
Signs of Activity
- Droppings (3–7mm, dark pellets)
- Gnaw marks on wood, wires or furniture
- Scratching sounds in walls or ceilings
- Grease marks along walls and baseboards
- Nests made from shredded materials
Can contaminate food areas and damage stored materials, building elements or wiring.
Cockroaches
Appearance
Oval, flattened body with six legs and long antennae. German (12–15mm), Australian (25–35mm), American (30–40mm).
Signs of Activity
- Droppings resembling black pepper or coffee grounds
- Egg cases (oothecae) in dark corners
- Musty odour in infested areas
- Live sightings, especially at night in kitchens
Can create hygiene concerns and contaminate food-preparation or storage areas.
Ants
Appearance
Black, brown or red bodies, 2–10mm long. Distinctive node (petiole) between thorax and abdomen.
Signs of Activity
- Visible trails leading to and from food sources
- Nests in soil, pavements or wall cavities
- Piles of fine dirt near nest entrances
- Large numbers in kitchens or bathrooms
Can contaminate food areas, and some species may bite or sting.
Wasps
Appearance
Yellow and black striped bodies, 10–15mm long, with a distinctive narrow waist. Paper wasps and European wasps are common.
Signs of Activity
- Papery nests under eaves, in wall cavities or in trees
- Buzzing sounds near nest sites
- Visible wasps flying to and from a single point
- Aggressive behaviour when approached
Stings can be painful. Avoid disturbing an active nest and keep people and pets away from the area.
Spotted signs of one of these pests? Tell us what you are seeing and where the activity is occurring so we can help you choose the right next step.
Request a pest-management service