Insect Identification Laboratory
Department of Entomology at Virginia Tech

Identification of Adult Stages of Insects

Select the insect from set #1 that most closely resembles the pest found in your house or pantry. If you do not see an insect that resembles the one found in your house go on to set #2 or set #3. Because this only covers the major pests you may have something else. In that case you should contact your county extension agent. He/She is well trained in local insect problems.

Set #1, six choices

SPIDER GROUP Spiders have eight legs and 6-8 eyes. Spiders have two body regions in contrast to insects which have three. BEES & WASPS GROUP Bees and wasps have three body regions. They have four wings, although it usually looks like just two because the hind wings are very small. Can be hairy or smooth. All have stings but not all bees and wasps sting....
FLY GROUP Flies have 3 body regions, but only two wings. Pale, dark, or metallic colored. MOTH GROUP Moths have 3 body regions and 4 wings that are covered with dusty scales.
ANTS & TERMITE GROUP Ants and termites are small and can be winged or wingless. May appear in swarms. Does not fit, GO TO LIST 2 OR GO TO LIST 3

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