How can I tell if I have bed bugs or fleas?

• <div><p>When you’re <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-kill-fleas-carpet.htm">checking for bed bugs in your home</a>, start by searching for the telltale signs rather than the insects themselves, as they tend to stay hidden during the day. Here are the key signs of a bed bug infestation:</p><ul><li><p>Rust-colored or reddish stains on mattresses and bed sheets</p></li><li><p>Dark spots on fabric</p></li><li><p>Shed skins</p></li><li><p>Fecal matter (looks like black spots)</p></li></ul><p>As for fleas, you can typically spot them on your pet. If you notice them scratching themselves excessively, look for bites and bugs on their skin and fur.</p></div>

Get matched with top pest control specialists in Marfa, TX

Q: How can I tell if I have bed bugs or fleas?

• <div><p>When you&rsquo;re <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-kill-fleas-carpet.htm">checking for bed bugs in your home</a>, start by searching for the telltale signs rather than the insects themselves, as they tend to stay hidden during the day. Here are the key signs of a bed bug infestation:</p><ul><li><p>Rust-colored or reddish stains on mattresses and bed sheets</p></li><li><p>Dark spots on fabric</p></li><li><p>Shed skins</p></li><li><p>Fecal matter (looks like black spots)</p></li></ul><p>As for fleas, you can typically spot them on your pet. If you notice them scratching themselves excessively, look for bites and bugs on their skin and fur.</p></div>

Q: What does a termite infestation look like?

• <div><p>There are some clear signs of a termite infestation, including damaged drywall, bubbling under paint, peeling paint, sagging or loose boards, and more. Termites typically leave behind a trail on the surface and interior of your drywall as they chew through it. Look for small, pin-sized holes in drywall or wallpaper to determine whether termites have made their way inside. </p></div>

Q: What keeps fleas off you?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re heading outdoors, wear long sleeves and pants to minimize skin exposure. You may also want to wear clothing and any additional gear, like backpacks or tents, treated with 0.5% permethrin. If you&rsquo;re dealing with fleas at home, you may want to wear insect repellant and vacuum your bed, carpets, and upholstery frequently to minimize fleas.</p></div>

Q: Do mice become rats?

• <div><p>No, mice do not become rats. While their similarities may make them appear to be the same animal at first, they are distinct in their appearance, behaviors, and the strategies used to remove them. Juvenile rats that have not reached their full adult size may be roughly the same size as mice, making them hard to tell apart.</p></div>

Q: What is the typical duration for a pest control service for businesses?

• <div><p>Most treatments take 1-3 hours, but severe infestations may require multiple visits.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your pest control project in Marfa, TX?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Find Pest control specialists in Marfa

Serving Marfa, TX and surrounding areas

In business since 1927

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"We found evidence of termite infestation. They responded quickly and inspected property the following day. Price was reasonable and employee was knowledgeable. He explained scope of work and options thoroughly. We added pest control as additional price was very reasonable. Work was performed the following day and we are satisfied with service."

Recommended by83%of homeowners

Serving Marfa, TX and surrounding areas

In business since 1927

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Terminix provides excellent pest extermination and mosquito control services. They investigate and give comprehensive treatment services. I highly recommend their services."

Recommended by85%of homeowners

Serving Marfa, TX and surrounding areas

In business since 1927

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Terminix was quick to respond and to get out here for a termite inspection, which is what we needed. However, they signed us up for pest control and said their agent would be out to care for us right away. So far haven’t seen him yet. Will give 5 stars if that turns out well."

Recommended by89%of homeowners

Serving Marfa, TX and surrounding areas

In business since 1927

"He was very helpful and explained the situation very well. He also made me feel at ease about my situation having termites and bugs. I would recommend him to everyone I know."

Recommended by60%of homeowners

Request Quote

American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,688

)

Serving Marfa, TX and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"I have a contract with them so I have to use them again. It pays for itself eventually if you get good repair people. You don't control who they send."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

Serving Marfa, TX and surrounding areas

In business since 1997

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Request Quote

Pest Control questions, answered by experts

When you’re checking for bed bugs in your home, start by searching for the telltale signs rather than the insects themselves, as they tend to stay hidden during the day. Here are the key signs of a bed bug infestation:

Rust-colored or reddish stains on mattresses and bed sheets
Dark spots on fabric
Shed skins
Fecal matter (looks like black spots)

As for fleas, you can typically spot them on your pet. If you notice them scratching themselves excessively, look for bites and bugs on their skin and fur.

There are some clear signs of a termite infestation, including damaged drywall, bubbling under paint, peeling paint, sagging or loose boards, and more. Termites typically leave behind a trail on the surface and interior of your drywall as they chew through it. Look for small, pin-sized holes in drywall or wallpaper to determine whether termites have made their way inside.

If you’re heading outdoors, wear long sleeves and pants to minimize skin exposure. You may also want to wear clothing and any additional gear, like backpacks or tents, treated with 0.5% permethrin. If you’re dealing with fleas at home, you may want to wear insect repellant and vacuum your bed, carpets, and upholstery frequently to minimize fleas.

No, mice do not become rats. While their similarities may make them appear to be the same animal at first, they are distinct in their appearance, behaviors, and the strategies used to remove them. Juvenile rats that have not reached their full adult size may be roughly the same size as mice, making them hard to tell apart.

Most treatments take 1-3 hours, but severe infestations may require multiple visits.

The Marfa, TX homeowners’ guide to pest control services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Alison Kasch
•
Mar 17, 2026Mar 17, 2026
How Much Does Pest Control Cost? [2026 Data]
Whether you have bugs, bats, or rodents invading your home, you’ll want to contact an exterminator quickly. Find out how much pest control costs.
Michelle Nati
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
Does Home Insurance Cover Pest Control?
Most home insurance policies exclude pest control, but there are exceptions. Learn when damage might be covered and how to prevent infestations.
Alison Kasch
•
May 22, 2026May 22, 2026
A Beginner's Guide to Integrated Pest Management
Integrated Pest Management, or IPM, is an environmentally-conscious approach to pest control. Find out how to use this concept for the pests around your crops.
Kat Brancato
•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 2026
Is Pest Control Worth It?
Is pest control worth it? Learn how a pest control plan works, how much it can cost, and the benefits of calling in the pros.
C.E. Larusso
•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 2026
What Is Exclusion in Pest Control? Learn About This Critter Containment Method
Learn what exclusion in pest control is and how it works as a safe, effective method to keep unwanted bugs and other critters out of your home.
Timothy Moore
•
Apr 8, 2026Apr 8, 2026
Should I Clean the House After Pest Control?
After extermination, you may wonder: Should I clean the house after pest control? It depends on the type of treatment. We’ll break down what you clean and when.