4 Harmless Bugs That Can Bite

A small red lady bug on a green leaf

Some of the most common household pests are harmless bugs that serve as more of a nuisance than a threat to you. In this blog, we’ll discuss some common pests that are considered harmless but can still bite if provoked.

Ants

There are more than 12,000 species of ants found all over the world, and the vast majority of them are harmless to humans. Most ants only enter homes in search of food. They're attracted to crumbs and other small bits of food that have been left out, and they're not interested in biting humans. However, there are a few exceptions. Fire ants and carpenter ants can both deliver a painful bite if their nests are disturbed. In addition, some species of ants are capable of causing allergic reactions in some people. But for the most part, ants are harmless creatures that pose no threat to humans.

Flies

Houseflies are a common nuisance in many parts of the world, but they are actually quite harmless. Unlike some of their cousins, modern house flies rarely bite humans. However, there are some exceptions. Horse flies and other biting insects can be a real menace, especially in rural areas. These insects are attracted to the carbon dioxide that we exhale, and they can deliver a painful bite. In some cases, these bites can even transmit diseases like malaria. In general, though, houseflies are more of a nuisance than a danger. They can carry bacteria on their bodies, but so can any other creature that comes into contact with our food. As long as you keep your hands and surfaces clean, there's no need to worry about contracting any diseases from a housefly.

Spiders

Most spiders are harmless to humans, with the exception of the Brown Recluse and Black Widow, and serve the great purpose of controlling the population of other insects. While some bites can cause swelling and redness, they are usually not dangerous and will clear up on their own. In fact, spiders are more afraid of us than we are of them and will only bite if they feel threatened. However, their ability to control the population of harmful insects is what makes them truly beneficial to us. By eating mosquitoes, flies, and other pests, spiders help to keep these populations in check, which in turn helps to protect us from disease.

Ladybugs

Ladybugs are one of the most identifiable insects in the world. They are also mostly harmless to humans, although they will bite if provoked. Most bites from a ladybug feel like a small pinch and don’t leave much of a mark or bump on your skin. Ladybugs are predators of harmful insects that damage plants and crops, and they play a vital role in controlling pests. They will also often enter homes in search of food, but they pose no threat to humans or pets. In fact, many people consider ladybugs to be lucky symbols, and they actively encourage them to stay in their gardens.

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