Living in Arizona has its perks. Sunshine, mild winters, and plenty of outdoor living. Unfortunately, those same conditions also make Arizona a year-round hotspot for pests. In colder climates, bugs take a long winter break. In the Phoenix area, pests stay active much longer.

The good news? You don’t need to be an entomologist to protect your home. You just need to know the most common household pests in Arizona and what to look for. Below is a simple, homeowner-friendly breakdown of the usual suspects and the “uh oh” signs that mean it’s time to call a pest control professional.

1. Arizona Bark Scorpions

Arizona bark scorpions are the most common (and most talked-about) scorpions found in homes across the Valley. They love cool, dark, and tight spaces like block walls, palm trees, wood piles, garages, attics, and even shoes left on the floor. Scorpions follow food sources like crickets and other insects. Warm weather, irrigation, and cracks around the home make entry easy.

Quick prevention tips:

• Keep landscaping trimmed and away from the house.
• Seal gaps around doors, windows, and utility lines.
• Reduce clutter in garages and storage areas.
• Have regular pest control treatments to eliminate their food sources.

If you start spotting them indoors or on the block walls (especially at night), it is time to call in the professionals at Alpha Pest Control.

2. Termites (Subterranean & Swarming)

Termites are one of the most damaging household pests in Arizona and are often the hardest to detect early. There are usually two kinds. One is the subterranean termites. These live underground and enter homes through the soil, often unnoticed for years. Swarming termites usually appear in spring or after rain, signaling a nearby colony.

Early warning signs:

• Mud tubes along walls or foundations
• Discarded wings near windows or doors
• Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
• Moisture issues around the home

Eliminating termites early can make a huge difference in protecting your home’s structure. Early action means less damage and less expense.

3. Roof Rats & Mice

Rodents are surprisingly common in Arizona neighborhoods, especially where citrus trees and older homes are nearby. Roof rats and mice usually hide out in attics, garages, spaces inside walls, sheds, and storage areas.

Early warning signs:

• Scratching or scurrying sounds at night
• Droppings in garages, cabinets, or pantries
• Chewed wires, insulation, or packaging
• Small gaps or holes around the exterior

Rodents can cause property damage and contaminate food, so early detection matters. If you see any of the signs above, reach out to a professional to take care of the issue.

4. Cockroaches

Cockroaches thrive in Arizona’s heat and are especially active where moisture is present. Common hiding spots for cockroaches are in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, drains, and under appliances. They are attracted to water leaks, crumbs, grease buildup, and clutter. Even clean homes can attract cockroaches if water sources are available.

Early warning signs:

• Seeing roaches at night
• Small droppings that look like coffee grounds
• Musty odors in cabinets or pantries

5. Ants

Ants are one of the most common pests Arizona homeowners deal with year-round. They show up because they’re searching for food and water, especially during extreme heat or heavy irrigation periods. So, it is important to manage irrigation and landscaping near the home. Also, make sure to seal cracks and entry points, so they can’t get inside. Lastly, don’t forget to wipe up crumbs and spills quickly.

Early warning signs:

• Visible ant trails along baseboards or counters
• Ants near sinks, pet bowls, or trash cans
• Increased activity after rain or watering

6. Mosquitoes (Yes, Even in the Desert)

It’s a common question: Why are mosquitoes in Arizona at all? The answer is simple; water. Mosquitoes breed in standing water from irrigation, planters, clogged drains, bird baths, or even low spots in the yard.

Early warning signs:

• Mosquito activity at dusk and dawn
• Bites appearing overnight
• Larvae in standing water

Reducing water sources around your property is key to minimizing mosquitoes.

7. Bees & Wasps

Not all stinging insects are a problem but location matters.

When to leave them alone:

• Bees passing through your yard
• Pollinators not nesting near people or pets

When it’s a concern:

• Hives near doors, patios, or play areas
• Increased aggressive behavior
• Repeated sightings in the same spot

The goal is safety. Especially around homes, businesses, and high-traffic areas. Bees and wasps can be dangerous so be sure to call the experts at Alpha Pest Control to help manage this issue.

Final Thoughts

Arizona’s climate makes pest activity a year-round reality. But knowing what to watch for puts you ahead of the problem. Recognizing the early signs of the most common household pests in Arizona can help prevent bigger, more stressful issues down the road.

If something doesn’t look right, it’s always better to address it sooner rather than later. A quick inspection and a prevention-focused approach can go a long way toward keeping your home comfortable and pest-free. We offer a free inspection at Alpha Pest Control. Call or text us anytime at 480-968-0414. Our team can find a pest control solution that is specific to your needs.