Move Over, Mosquitoes: The Most Common Pest in Maine May Not Be What You Think

We're all thinking it, so I'm just going to say it... I hate bugs. We're all secretly cursing the little guys. Sure, I get it. They play a role in the grand scheme of our environment and Mother Earth and all, but I have had enough of these pests, and for just one day wish to rid myself of dealing with them.

Let's take a look at the most common pest in our great state of Maine. A few come to mind when thinking about what bugs bug us the most. For me, it's flies, mosquitoes, stink bugs, and even hornets. However, the pest I would assume is taking over is not on my list.

According to Forbes, the number one bug in my home state of Pennsylvania is the cockroach. That just makes me feel like I need to take a shower.

But what about Maine? It surprised me when I read this, because I didn't realize that these bugs were more present than the dreaded mosquito, but alas, they are. Which bug am I speaking of? Carpenter ants.

Okay, okay, now that I think about it, it does make sense.

But why? Well, the question revolves around what lures carpenter ants in. As outlined in the article, carpenter ants share similarities with termites. They love WOOD!

These wood-devouring insects become drawn to homes and other wooden structures all because of their love affair with wood. It serves as their preferred nesting grounds. Therefore, if your home is rich in wood, it becomes an ideal spot for these ants to set up their nests.

Keeping a clean home is also important in trying to deter this little guys. According to Parkway Pest Services, ants love protein and sugar. Their preferred menu consists of other dead insects, ew, and honeydew. So basically, anything dead and anything sweet. If you have kids with sticky fingers, they are a natural lure for these guys.

Here's something else you probably didn't know about carpenter ants. They are strong. Like, strong as heck. The carpenter ant get draw up the strength to lift over 50 times its body weight, according to Truly Nolen. So that means it would be similar to a human being lifting a car with their teeth, as the article states.

Pretty impressive. But the impressive nature of their lifting habits do not override the fact that they are an annoyance!