NYS PCO NYS PCO Pest Identification

Question 1

Which termite species is the most economically significant structural pest in New York State?

Accepted Answer

Eastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes flavipes)

Answer

Formosan subterranean termite

Answer

Drywood termite

Answer

Dampwood termite

Question 2

How can a PCO distinguish carpenter ants from termites?

Accepted Answer

Carpenter ants have a constricted waist; termites have a broad, straight waist

Answer

Termites have six legs; ants have eight legs

Answer

Carpenter ants are white; termites are black

Answer

Termites have antennae; ants do not

Question 3

The presence of mud tubes along a foundation is a primary sign of which pest?

Accepted Answer

Subterranean termites

Answer

Carpenter bees

Answer

Carpenter ants

Answer

Powderpost beetles

Question 4

Which rodent is identified by its blunt snout, small ears, and stocky body in New York pest control?

Accepted Answer

Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus)

Answer

Roof rat (Rattus rattus)

Answer

House mouse (Mus musculus)

Answer

Deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus)

Question 5

Frass (sawdust-like excrement) pushed from tiny holes in wood is characteristic of which wood-destroying insect?

Accepted Answer

Powderpost beetles

Answer

Subterranean termites

Answer

Carpenter ants

Answer

Wood-boring wasps

Question 6

Which cockroach species is the smallest and most commonly found in kitchen and restaurant infestations in New York?

Accepted Answer

German cockroach (Blattella germanica)

Answer

American cockroach (Periplaneta americana)

Answer

Oriental cockroach (Blatta orientalis)

Answer

Brownbanded cockroach (Supella longipalpa)