New Milford Is Classic Suburbia With a Natural Flair

Crawlies, Rollies, and Web-Building Wanderers

Like the surrounding towns, New Milford is attractive to a wide range of wildlife, including pests that think your property is their property.

Carpenter ants are a common New Jersey nuisance and up to five times larger than the typical tiny house ant. Despite their name, they don’t eat wood (like termites) or build you a new banister. Their title is derived from their habit of excavating wood, something they do to create nesting spots and living areas. Carpenter ants have been known to bite when feeling threatened. While the pain isn’t intense, it is typically noticeable and may cause burning or itching for a few minutes or longer. 

Rolly pollys (aka pill bugs) aren’t insects; rather, they’re related to shrimp and considered terrestrial crustaceans. Other terrestrial crustaceans include sowbugs (similar to rolly pollys but unable to roll themselves into balls as a defense mechanism) and certain kinds of crab. These types of creatures evolved from aquatic ancestors and, as a result, require moist environments . . . otherwise, they’ll dry out. Rolly pollys can be found in homes and buildings as accidental visitors; however, they don’t reproduce well indoors and prefer to stay outside in damp soil or gardens. 

Hornets are a type of wasp that belongs to the genus Vespa (yes, the Italian scooter brand pays homage to the hornet). Compared to other wasps (including yellowjackets), hornets are larger, heavier, and more social. Certain species of hornets are predators of the all-important honeybee. They’re not just active in their predation but dramatic, too; they wait for bees at their hives and ambush them. Hornets aren’t always murderous, though; they also eat tree sap, nectar, honeydew, and fruit, especially if it’s overly ripe or damaged. 

Spiders are fascinating creatures and typically harmless, despite arachnophobia’s persistence. Jumping spiders have exceptional sight and some of the best vision among all insects. They don’t take leaps of faith; they accurately judge distances before jumping. Orb-weavers are constant redecorators, rebuilding their webs every day while being eco-conscious (they recycle the silk proteins). They’re known for the classic circular web many people picture when they think of spiders. Fishing spiders are common in New Milford waterways and are regarded for their unique ability to walk on water. Among the larger spiders in North America, they can grab and eat small fish, shrimp, and tadpoles. Black widows are one of the most feared spiders, yet they’re reclusive rather than aggressive. When they bite, it’s a defense mechanism, which is why it’s important not to disturb one in your window well. Just call us instead!