By Brad Janssen

At Janssen Pest Solutions, we know just how irritating and dangerous biting and stinging insects can be across Iowa communities like Des Moines, Waukee, Ankeny, Ames, and beyond. Our locally owned pest control company has over 35 years of experience keeping families and businesses in Central Iowa safe from the pests that invade our homes, yards, and lives. Whether you’re looking to prevent insect bites or eliminate an infestation, our team offers safe, effective, and eco-friendly solutions tailored for Iowa’s most common biting and stinging pests.


Mosquitoes in Iowa

Mosquitoes are some of the most common biting insects in Iowa, especially in the summer months. Floodwater mosquitoes and permanent water mosquitoes are both found throughout Des Moines and Central Iowa. Permanent water mosquitoes tend to lay eggs near lakes, ponds, and ditches, so avoiding these areas at dusk is one way to prevent bites.

Signs of Mosquito Infestation:

  • High activity at dusk or dawn
  • Increased bites on skin
  • Buzzing sounds near shaded areas

Don’t wait until your yard is overrun. Janssen Pest Solutions offers eco-friendly mosquito control in Waukee, Ankeny, and Des Moines with monthly service options and $100 off for new customers.


Biting Ants

Ants are a nuisance across Central Iowa and can deliver painful bites or stings. From carpenter ants to pavement ants, these pests invade Iowa homes during warmer seasons.

Common Signs:

  • Ant trails around entry points
  • Nesting in walls or under pavement
  • Bites or stings leaving red bumps

We offer affordable ant control in Ames, Des Moines, and Waukee with safe, family-friendly treatment plans.


Ticks in Iowa

Ticks are a rising threat in Iowa, carrying diseases like Lyme. You’ll find deer ticks, American dog ticks, and lone star ticks in wooded and grassy areas.

Tick Prevention Tips:

  • Wear long sleeves outdoors
  • Check skin and pets after hikes
  • Remove ticks with tweezers, disinfect the bite area

If you spot ticks on your property, contact Janssen for tick control in Des Moines and Central Iowa with eco-friendly options that protect people and pets.


Spiders

Spiders may not be insects, but their bites can cause concern. Most Iowa spiders are harmless, but species like the black widow and brown recluse do exist here.

Where You’ll Find Them:

  • Basements, garages, and attics
  • Outdoor structures and storage

We specialize in spider control in Ankeny, Clive, and Des Moines, using safe and targeted removal strategies.


Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are a major issue in Iowa homes, especially with increased summer travel. These pests hide in beds, baseboards, and furniture, feeding on human blood.

Signs of Bed Bugs:

  • Clusters of red welts on skin
  • Small black dots (bed bug waste) on sheets
  • Shed skins near mattress seams

If you suspect an infestation, act fast. Janssen Pest Solutions offers bed bug treatment in Waukee, West Des Moines, and Ames with family-safe heat treatments and detection options.


Wasps

Wasps are common stinging insects in Iowa, including yellow jackets, paper wasps, and mud daubers. Though generally non-aggressive, wasps will defend their nests if threatened.

Signs of Infestation:

  • Visible nests near doors or decks
  • Wasps flying around rooflines or gardens

We provide wasp removal in Altoona, Urbandale, and Ankeny using pet-safe and environmentally responsible methods.


Bees

Bees are critical to the ecosystem, but nesting near homes can pose a risk. Iowa is home to carpenter bees, ground bees, and bumblebees.

Where Bees Nest:

  • Tree branches
  • Under decks or eaves
  • Ground-level holes in lawns

Our technicians offer bee removal in Des Moines and surrounding communities, with a focus on safe relocation when possible.


Fleas

Fleas feed on pets and humans alike, and their bites leave itchy, red bumps. Fleas are hard to eliminate without professional help.

How to Spot a Flea Problem:

  • Pets scratching excessively
  • Red, irritated skin on humans or animals
  • Black specks on bedding or furniture

Janssen provides flea treatment in Des Moines, Ankeny, and Ames with eco-friendly and pet-safe solutions.


Protect Your Family with Janssen Pest Solutions

Whether you’re in Des Moines, Waukee, Ames, Ankeny, or anywhere in Central Iowa, Janssen Pest Solutions is here to keep your property free of biting and stinging pests. Our affordable monthly pest control services and $100 off new customer deal make it easier than ever to get started.

Contact us today for a free estimate and protect your home from Iowa’s insects that bite and sting.