Debunking the most common pest myths under the Southwest Florida sun!
Florida is home to sandy beaches, palm trees, and… more bugs than most people care to admit. From mosquitoes that never seem to quit to palmetto bugs that look like they belong in a horror movie, it’s easy to believe every creepy-crawly rumor you hear.
But not everything you’ve been told about Southwest Florida pests is true. In fact, some of the most common “facts” are pure myths and believing them can make pest problems worse.
Let’s bust a few of the biggest bug myths that keep circulating through the Sunshine State.
Myth #1: “Palmetto bugs only come out at night.”
Truth: They prefer the dark, but they don’t follow a strict bedtime.
Palmetto bugs (a polite name for Southwest Florida’s large cockroaches) are nocturnal by nature, but that doesn’t mean you’ll never see them during the day. If you’re spotting them in daylight, it usually means their hiding spots are overcrowded, aka, you might be dealing with a growing infestation.
Myth busted: Seeing them in the daytime is a red flag, not a coincidence.
Myth #2: “Mosquitoes only bite near water.”
Truth: Water is where they breed, not necessarily where they feed.
Standing water is mosquito nursery heaven, but once adults emerge, they’ll fly hundreds of feet (sometimes more!) to find their next meal…you. Southwest Florida’s humidity helps them survive just about anywhere, from patios to playgrounds.
Myth busted: You don’t need a pond to have a mosquito problem. Even a damp flowerpot tray can invite them in.
Myth #3: “If I don’t see bugs, I don’t have bugs.”
Truth: Most pests are excellent hiders.
Termites work silently inside walls. Ants set up colonies deep under concrete. Bed bugs hide in seams and furniture. Just because you don’t see pests doesn’t mean they’re not there. It usually means they’re winning the game of hide and seek.
Myth busted: Regular inspections and prevention are your best defense.
Myth #4: “All spiders are dangerous.”
Truth: Most Southwest Florida spiders are harmless—and actually helpful!
Only a few species, like the black widow or brown recluse, pose real threats. The rest help keep pest populations in check by eating mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. So, before you panic, remember that not every spider is out to get you.
Myth busted: Don’t squish every spider—some are nature’s own pest control.
Myth #5: “Rodents only invade dirty homes.”
Truth: Rodents go where the food and warmth are. Clean or not.
Even spotless homes can attract rats and mice if there’s easy access to food, warmth, or water. A small hole the size of a dime is all it takes for a rodent to move in.
Myth busted: It’s about opportunity, not cleanliness.
Bonus Myth: “Pests die off in the SWFL winter.”
Truth: What winter?
SWFL’s “cool” season is barely a vacation for pests. Most species simply slow down or move indoors where it’s warm. That’s why winter is a great time to double-check your home’s pest protection.
Myth busted: Pest control is a year-round job in the SWFL.
Final Word: Know the Myths, Beat the Bugs
Bugs in SWFL are here to stay, but your pest problems don’t have to be. When you know the truth behind the myths, you can take smarter steps to protect your home and family.
Want to separate fact from fiction about your own pest issues?
Schedule an inspection with us and get expert answers—no myths, no guesswork, just results. Call : (239) 225-0615
