Pests are organisms that can cause harm to crops, livestock, or human health. They include insects like cockroaches and mosquitoes, as well as rodents such as rats and mice. Pests can damage food supplies, spread diseases, and disrupt ecosystems, making them a concern for farmers, homeowners, and public health officials.
Controlling pests often involves various methods, including chemical pesticides, traps, and natural predators. Integrated pest management (IPM) is a strategy that combines these approaches to minimize harm to the environment while effectively managing pest populations. Understanding pests and their behavior is essential for effective control and prevention.