3 Pests That Could Cost You Thousands of Dollars

Not all pest problems show up in obvious ways. Some creep in quietly, one feeding the other, until the damage is done—and you’re left with a repair bill in the thousands.

Let’s break down one of the most overlooked (but costly) pest chains we see in Montana homes.

1. Insects

The first link in the chain. Insects like ants and beetles often go unchecked—because they seem harmless or “not that many.” But these bugs don’t just multiply fast, they also attract hungry wildlife.

2. The Northern Flicker (Woodpecker)

This native bird loves to feed on insects. When your home or yard becomes an all-you-can-eat buffet, the Northern Flicker shows up. While they play an important ecological role, their behavior can be destructive. Flickers drill into siding and walls searching for bugs, unintentionally opening up cavities in your home.

3. The European Starling

Here’s where the real trouble starts. Once the Northern Flicker creates those holes, invasive European Starlings move in. They don’t just nest in these spaces—they take over. Starlings are aggressive, messy, and nearly impossible to evict once they settle.

What began as a few bugs could now mean:

• Holes in your walls

• Noisy and invasive starling nests

• Structural damage

• Contaminated insulation

Stop the Chain Before It Starts

Ignoring pests—especially insects—creates the perfect storm. Every part of this cycle feeds into the next. And by the time the birds show up, the damage is already in motion.

Deal with your pest problem before it becomes a big one.

📞 Call us today at 406-830-8752

🌐 Or visit www.bigskypest.com to book your inspection.