Our homes might seem like a sanctuary from the wild, but they're actually teeming with secret life.
From the folds in our carpets and the corners of our cupboards to the eaves of our attics and the mattress on our beds, we share our houses with a surprising variety of tiny creatures - most of which are completely harmless, even if they can look a bit scary.
Here are 12 animals that may be lurking in your home, right under your nose.
12 animals that secretively live in your home
House dust mite
These microscopic creatures thrive in bedding, carpets and upholstered furniture. Feeding on dead skin cells, dust mites are harmless to most, but their waste can trigger allergies and asthma. Their presence is nearly impossible to detect without a microscope, making them a hidden but constant companion.
Silverfish
These small, wingless insects love dark, damp spaces such as basements, bathrooms and kitchens. Silverfish feed on starchy materials including paper, glue and even your wallpaper. Though harmless to humans, they can cause damage to books, clothing and pantry goods.
House spider
Spiders are natural pest controllers, feeding on insects that invade your home. While their webs can be unsightly, these eight-legged hunters are generally harmless. The most common house spiders rarely bite humans, preferring to hide in quiet corners and ceilings.
Bat
Bats sometimes roost in attics, especially during colder months. Small gaps in roofing or eaves allow them to enter and find safety in the rafters. Though harmless to humans, they can leave behind droppings (guano), which can build up and pose health risks if not discovered and cleaned.
German cockroach
German cockroaches are notorious home invaders, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms. Active mostly at night, cockroaches hide in cracks, crevices and warm areas, making them difficult to spot until the infestation grows. They are found around the world, including North America, Africa, Australia, the Middle East and parts of Europe.
Clothes moth
Clothes moths may seem unassuming, but their larvae can wreak havoc on your wardrobe. Feeding on natural fibres such as wool, silk and fur, these tiny insects thrive in dark, undisturbed areas of closets and drawers, leaving holes in your favourite garments.
Bed bug
Bed bugs are expert hiders, often taking refuge in mattresses, bed frames and headboards. These blood-sucking insects feed on humans while they sleep, leaving behind itchy bites. Despite their tiny size, bed bugs can cause big headaches, especially if they multiply unnoticed.
House mouse
House mice are the most common mammal secretly living in your home. These tiny creatures sneak in through small cracks, searching for food and warmth. They often nest behind walls or in cluttered basements. Fortunately, there are a few simple (and humane) ways to get rid of mice in your home.
Booklouse
Despite their name, booklice aren't true lice, but they do thrive in humid environments, often feeding on mold and fungi found in old books, paper, or wallpaper. They’re small and harmless, but can become a nuisance if they find ample food sources in your home.
Fungus gnat
These tiny flies are often found around houseplants, attracted to the moist soil. Fungus gnats lay their eggs in the soil, and their larvae feed on organic matter, sometimes damaging plant roots. While they don’t harm humans, their persistent presence can be quite annoying.
Carpet beetle
Carpet beetles are a common household animal, particularly in homes with lots of fabric. Their larvae feed on natural fibres, including carpets, furniture and clothing. They tend to hide in dark, undisturbed areas such as attics or under heavy furniture, making them hard to detect.
Ant
Various species of ants can find their way into your home, especially if they discover a food source. Common household ants may nest in walls, floors, or foundations, forming long trails as they forage for crumbs.
So, it turns out your home may be more crowded than you think.
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