We like to think that we’re safe from creepy crawlies when in the safety of our homes. But did you know that on average there are 100 different kinds of bugs shacking up with you at one time?

While some of these bugs might be nice little guys, nowhere understands the struggle of gross invading insects like people in Florida. Florida bugs are notorious for invading homes and being particularly, well, gross.

Let’s go over 6 of the most common bugs in Florida that you’ll find both outside and inside your home.

1. Palmetto Bug

Don’t be fooled by the seemingly innocuous name: a palmetto bug is a type of big, winged, cockroach. These large roaches can grow to 1.6 inches in length, and yes they can fly.

As if that wasn’t bad enough, when palmetto bugs get scared or threatened (like if you’re trying to swat it with a newspaper) it can spray a nasty smelling liquid at you. That’s where it gets its other nickname: skunk roach.

Palmetto bugs prefer damp and moist environments, so don’t be surprised to find them in sinks, bathrooms, garages, etc. They also tend to come out at night, so you might see a few scurrying away when you flick on the bathroom light to pee at 2 am.

2. Two-Striped Walking Stick

This weird looking bug looks like a stick, if you can believe it. It’s native to Florida and often travels with a partner. Kind of cute, isn’t it?

They can grow to over 2.5 inches and they’re most often spotted in the autumn months around trees, leaves, and other vegetation. Like the palmetto bug, two-striped walking stick bugs can spray a foul-smelling liquid when they’re threatened.

While these guys aren’t inherently harmful, you need to be careful of the spray. If it gets in your eye, it can cause irritation, redness, and itching. If this happens to you, see a doctor right away.

3. Termites

Formosan termites are by far the most common type of termite found in Florida. These bugs aren’t native to Florida. They’re actually an invasive species that came from Asia.

Formosan termites “swarm” throughout spring into the early summer months. This is when the termites are mating and reproducing at fast rates. During a swarm, the termites need to find a source of wood to consume and use during the reproductive process, which can be harmful to homes and buildings made of wood.

Swarming season is also the perfect time to tell if you have a termite infestation in your home. You’ll notice dead bugs, fallen wings, and other signs.

Make sure to research about termite swarming and how you can protect your home from these bugs.

If you have termites in your home, you need to seek professional pest control help immediately. Termites can permanently damage the structure of your home in just a few months time, which can result in dangerous and expensive damage.

4. Black Witch Moth

Black witch moths are so huge that many people mistake them for bats and small birds. With a total length of 7 inches, it’s not hard to understand why.

You can find these months all year long in Florida, especially Southern Florida where there is ideal weather (warm and wet). They’re nocturnal, but you can find them during the day taking refuge in garages, in the shade of cars, and underneath tunnels/boardwalks.

These guys, while huge and kind of gross, aren’t harmful. They do have a few superstitions associated with them, though.

They’re known as the butterfly of death. It’s said that if someone is sick inside a home and this moth enters, that person will inevitably die. Other funny myths about the black witch moth include:

• Seeing this moth means you’ve been cursed
• If this moth flies over you, you’ll lose all of your hair
• In Hawaii, these moths are your deceased loved ones coming back to say hello
• If one lands on you, you’re destined to win the lottery/come into some money

Biologically, these guys are harmless and common around Florida. If you believe the myths, it’s hard to decide whether you want to see one or not. Will you be cursed or win the lottery?

5. Fire Ants

The general term “fire ant” can be referring to a few different species found in Florida, including Solenopsis Invicta Buren and Solenopsis Geminata. By far the most common in Florida is the Solenopsis Invicta Buren, aka the red fire ant.

These pests create huge mounds and colonies. They can be found in yards all over Florida and the Southern United States. Their name “fire ant” refers to the stinging, burning bites that they give people.

Fire ants can swarm all over your skin and give you painful bites that can form pustules. These bites feel like painful burning stings that can stay painful for days after the initial bites.

6. Polydamas Swallowtail Butterfly

After going over some of the grossest bugs in Florida, let’s end with a nice pretty one, shall we? Polydamas Swallowtail butterfly is one the most common butterflies found throughout Florida.

These a butterflies can grow anywhere between 3.6 and 4.6 inches. Their wings are a gorgeous black with yellow bands and spots.

Common Florida Bugs You’ll Definitely Run Into

Sun and moist air bring a lot of people and tourists to Florida for fun on the beach and tropical getaways. However, it also brings a large number of insects that enjoy the warmth just as much as people do.

Common Florida bugs can (and will) enter your home. It’s just a part of living in Florida.

However, that doesn’t mean you have to make it comfortable for them. Certain bugs are just gross, but others can cause harm and damage to your home. Watch out for signs of infestation, and don’t be afraid to call an exterminator if you have to.

Check out our other home tips to keep your home clean, safe, and secure.