01Visual pest identification
What have you found?
Start with appearance or evidence, then narrow the possibilities using simple observable clues. Identification comes before treatment.
01Compare appearanceUse clear pest photographs
02Check the evidenceDroppings, larvae, nests & damage
03Narrow the matchLocation, size and activity
04Choose the next stepAdvice, products or local help
Start with the pest
Which looks most like what you saw?
Select the closest-looking pest to open its full identification profile. If nothing looks right, use the evidence route below.
CompareRodentsRatsView identification profile →
CompareRodentsMiceView identification profile →
CompareFlying insectsWaspsView identification profile →
CompareFlying insectsHornetsView identification profile →
CompareCrawling insectsBed bugsView identification profile →
CompareCrawling insectsFleasView identification profile →
CompareCrawling insectsCockroachesView identification profile →
CompareCrawling insectsAntsView identification profile →
CompareFabric pestsClothes mothsView identification profile →
CompareFabric pestsCarpet beetlesView identification profile →
CompareCrawling insectsSilverfishView identification profile →
CompareFlying insectsFliesView identification profile →
CompareStored product pestsPantry & stored-product pestsView identification profile →
CompareTimber pestsWood-boring insectsView identification profile →
CompareMammalsGrey squirrelsView identification profile →
CompareBirdsPigeonsView identification profile →
Only found evidence?
Identify the clue, not just the pest.
Many infestations are discovered through signs rather than a clear sighting. Use the clue that best matches what you found.
0102Bites or skin marks
Marks alone are unreliable; pair them with physical evidence.
Use evidence guides →0304050607Noises in walls or loft
Time of day and location help separate mice, rats and squirrels.
Use evidence guides →08Food or fabric damage
Packaging holes, webbing and natural-fibre damage are useful clues.
Use evidence guides →Narrow the possibilities
Three simple clues can make the shortlist much better.
Choose only what you actually observed. Do not guess at a treatment if the result still looks uncertain.
Know what you are dealing with?
Move from identification to the right next step.
Read the pest profile, use sensible prevention where appropriate, or search for professional help in your area.