Identify and Manage Outdoor Insects

There are six species of ticks found in Maryland and the majority of them are capable of transmitting diseases to people and pets. Here are resources for identifying ticks in Maryland and protecting yourself from tick bites.

Kissing bugs, the bloodsucking conenose (Triatoma sanguisuga), are present in Maryland, but they are of little cause for concern. The risk of contracting a disease from them is extremely low. Common wheel bugs and boxelder bugs are often mistaken for kissing bugs.

Honey bees are non-native bees that are used for pollination and production of honey and wax. They are social insects that live in large colonies. They will only sting to defend themselves. 

Chiggers are a tiny larvae of mites in the genus Eutrombicula. Their bite causes intense itching.

Prevent mosquito bites by wearing repellants and protective clothing. Eliminate standing water on your property to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an exotic invasive insect that is a serious threat to Maryland ash trees. It has killed many millions of ash trees across the Mid-West and Eastern U.S.

Viburnum leaf beetle (Pyrrhalta viburni) is an introduced pest of viburnum in North America.

The Sirex woodwasp (SWW) is an exotic, invasive pest considered to be one of the top 10 most serious forest insect pests worldwide.

Kudzu bug is an invasive insect that has also been found in Maryland on the Eastern shore, in southern and central Maryland.

Japanese cedar longhorned beetle is an invasive insect that was first detected in Maryland in 2011.