Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

During inspections, which pests are walls typically checked for?

1. Fleas and ticks

2. Cockroaches, ants, and rodents

3. Flies and wasps

4. Moths and beetles

The correct answer is: Cockroaches, ants, and rodents

Walls are typically checked for cockroaches, ants, and rodents during inspections due to their common association with structural hiding places and high susceptibility to infestation in residential and commercial buildings. These pests often exploit spaces within walls for nesting and foraging, making it essential to inspect these areas thoroughly. Cockroaches are known for their ability to access tight spaces, often residing in wall voids, behind baseboards, and within cabinets. Their presence can indicate increased moisture problems and unsanitary conditions. Ants, particularly species like carpenter ants, can damage wood structures as they create nests in wall cavities. Rodents, including mice and rats, frequently travel through walls and can create disturbances, such as chewing through wires and insulation, leading to additional health and safety concerns. While fleas and ticks are typically found in carpets or on pets, and flies and wasps are usually located near points of entry or nesting sites outside, they are less associated with wall inspections. Moths and beetles, being more related to stored product pests or fabrics, do not frequently inhabit wall spaces in the same manner as the primary focus pests listed. This concentration on the most likely pests that utilize wall spaces justifies the emphasis on cockroaches, ants, and rodents during inspections.