CLOVER MITE
They look like walking pepper and leave a red streak if smashed? These are CLOVER MITES. In the late fall and early spring these small mites can sometimes be found crawling by the thousands both indoors and along siding outdoors. The front legs are very long and may appear to be antennae. The source is outside where they have overwintered along the foundation. They are harmless and they do not bite or infest plants. The only concern is that if they are mishandled and crushed, they can stain painted walls and furniture. Indoors you can vacuum them up. If you decide to treat, treat along the outside foundation. Soapy water and many outdoor landscape insecticides will work - but you need to use a moderate volume - so a hose end spray will be you best bet. If untreated, they should disappear when they move out into the lawn.
TERMITE AND CARPENTER ANT
The small critters are termite swarmers--the larger insect is a queen carpenter ant. There is a big difference. Termites eat wood, ants just live in soften wood. Winged forms of both can be seen in April. For more information on termites see http://www.entomology.wisc.edu/diaglab/labnotes/WItermite.pdf and for carpenter ants consult http://www1.uwex.edu/ces/pubs/pdf/A3641.PDF.
Bat Tick
Bat Tick
BAT AND DEER TICK
It is Tick season. The warty-looking critter is a bat tick, and can be found in your home if you have bats present. They rarely bite people and are best controlled by getting the bats to move somewhere else. Deer ticks have been active since the snow left. If you spend time in the woods it is good to do a tick check. For more background see http://www.uwex.edu/ces/wihort/pests/DeerTicks.htm.
Deer Tick
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