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The cockroach most easily confused with water bugs is the Oriental cockroach, for several reasons. Their shape is most similar to a water bug, and they’re notorious for seeking out and living near water. If you capture one of these bugs close to a water supply, you can quickly tell if it’s an Oriental roach or a water bug. These roaches are a darker color, and they cannot fly, while water bugs are a lighter brown and can fly to escape.

Rats are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active at night, typically from late evening through the early morning. They use the cover of darkness to explore, forage for food, and find water, as they feel safer and can avoid daytime predators and human activity. Their sharp senses, including keen night vision and hearing, are well-suited for navigating in the dark. Because they prefer to stay hidden during the day in secluded areas like walls or attics, you are more likely to spot signs of their presence—such as droppings or gnaw marks—before you see an actual rat.

Termites, carpenter ants, and wood-boring beetles can move from wood furniture to other areas of your home. If you notice signs of bugs in wood furniture, it's best to remove and isolate it for treatment. Remember that it can be difficult to identify which type of pest you are dealing with, and they can already be in areas of your home.

If DIY methods don’t work or you don’t know which pest it is you should contact an exterminator if you are showing signs of wood-eating pests to prevent further damage.