NYS PCO Pest Identification Flashcards

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

Answer: Eastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes flavipes)

The Eastern subterranean termite is the predominant termite species in New York and the primary cause of termite structural damage in the state.

How can a PCO distinguish carpenter ants from termites?

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

The most reliable visual distinction is the petiole: carpenter ants have a narrow, pinched waist while termite workers have a broad, uniform abdomen.

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

Answer: Subterranean termites

Subterranean termites construct mud tubes to maintain moisture and protect themselves as they travel between the soil and wood structures.

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

Answer: Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus)

The Norway rat has a stocky build, blunt snout, small close-set ears, and a tail shorter than its body length, distinguishing it from the slender roof rat.

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

Answer: Powderpost beetles

Powderpost beetles leave fine, flour-like frass pushed out of small round exit holes as evidence of active infestation.

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

Answer: German cockroach (Blattella germanica)

The German cockroach is the most prevalent indoor cockroach in NY and the hardest to control due to its rapid reproductive rate.