Cockroaches prefer warm, moist environments with places to hide. There are several species of cockroaches, so identification is the first step in management. Consult the Pest Note: Cockroaches for help.

Clothes moths may attack fur, feathered items and fabric. They can also attack wool carpets, rugs, and clothes. These moths may be difficult to eradicate. Read the Clothes Moths Pest Note for more information.

Speaking of "rats", rodents such as mice and rats can squeeze through the tiniest openings in buildings. They are looking for food and shelter and adequate space to raise their young. Read about how to exclude these pests or control them if already present in the Pest Notes House Mouse and Rats.

Bed bugs can hide in more than just the bed. Cluttered areas, furniture, and other household belongs can harbor bed bugs as they wait for their host to return. If you fear you may have bed bugs, consult the Bed Bugs Pest Note, where you can also watch videos about inspecting for bed bugs.

Pantry Pests are moths and beetles that infest and taint a wide variety of foods with their bodies and by-products. To learn how to avoid introducing them or eliminating an existing infestation, visit the Pantry Pests Pest Note.

Good sanitation and limiting hiding places are great ways of practicing integrated pest management around the home. We at UC IPM will be celebrating World Packrat Day by sharing this information on how to limit clutter and by doing some extra cleaning of our own storage areas to reduce hiding spots for pests.