Can I identify a pest from one photograph?

Sometimes a photograph helps, but scale, behavior, location, life stage, and physical evidence may also be necessary.

Do bites identify the pest?

No. Similar skin reactions can have many causes. Physical pest evidence and professional evaluation are more reliable than bites alone.

Should I throw away an insect sample?

If it can be preserved safely without handling a hazardous pest, a sealed sample or clear photograph may help with identification. Do not handle unknown insects when doing so may create risk.

Does requesting the worksheet request an inspection?

No. The worksheet is an educational resource. Submit the inspection form separately when you want professional assistance.

Homeowner field guide · Version 2026-08-06

MetroWest Homeowner Field Guide: Household Pest Evidence and Identification Worksheet

When the pest is unknown, the most useful first step is often documenting the evidence without jumping to a conclusion. This worksheet helps you record where the activity occurs, what the pest or evidence looks like, and what property conditions may be relevant.

It does not identify a pest, and it does not provide pesticide or medical guidance. You are never asked to handle an unknown insect.

Print or save as PDF

1. Location

Kitchen
Pantry
Bathroom
Bedroom
Basement
Attic
Garage
Laundry area
Window
Exterior wall
Deck or patio
Storage area
Other

2. Type of evidence

Live insect
Dead insect
Droppings
Shed skin
Egg case
Web
Larvae
Damaged food package
Fabric damage
Wood damage
Staining
Odor
Bite concern
Unknown material

3. Description

Approximate length
Color
Wings
Number of legs visible
Fuzzy or smooth
Fast or slow
Flying or crawling
Jumping
One insect or several
Photograph available

Do not handle the pest. Photographs taken safely are enough.

4. Timing and frequency

Day
Night
After rain
During warm weather
During cold weather
After bringing in groceries
After travel
After moving furniture
Continuous
Occasional

5. Food, water, and shelter

Open food
Dry goods
Pet food
Trash
Recycling
Plumbing
Drain
Condensation
Plants
Cardboard
Stored fabric
Firewood
Used furniture

6. Photograph checklist

Whole insect
Close-up where safe
Nearby surface
Damage
Droppings or shed material
Size reference that does not expose personal information

7. When to request an inspection

Persistent activity
Multiple rooms
Food contamination
Unknown droppings
Structural damage
Activity near wiring
Activity involving beds or furniture
Inability to identify the pest
Prior attempts have not resolved activity

Professional inspection

Want a professional opinion?

Share the evidence, locations, and timing you recorded and request an initial inspection.

Request a Professional Inspection

No obligation. Requests are stored and reviewed, and we explain the next step for your area.

Professional provider availability is currently being established for MetroWest.

Frequently asked questions

Educational information only. This field guide is general homeowner information for documenting what you are observing. It cannot identify a pest, confirm an infestation, or replace an on-site evaluation by a licensed professional. It does not provide pesticide or treatment instructions.