Common Hotel Pests You Must Know

Bedbugs

Found in Hotel Beds, Chairs, and Even Electrical Points

Bedbugs continue to be a growing problem in hotels across Singapore due to high tourist traffic, increased international travel, and rising resistance to conventional chemicals since the ban of older pesticides like DDT. These pests thrive in warm, humid environments - perfect conditions found in hotel rooms, especially in busy areas like Orchard, Marina Bay, and Sentosa.

Rodents

Common Types of Rats and Mice Found in Singapore Hotels

• Brown Rat – Rattus norvegicus - Also known as the sewer rat, this species is common in Singapore’s urban areas. Adults grow 20–30 cm in body length, with tails of 13–32 cm, and can weigh up to 500 g. Colours vary from grey to brown, with occasional lighter shades.
• Black Rat – Rattus rattus - Also known as the house rat or roof rat, this species often nests in higher areas like hotel ceilings or roof structures. Measuring 16–24 cm with a tail longer than its body, it has a pointed snout and large ears.
• House Mouse – Mus domesticus - Smaller and slimmer than rats, adult mice measure 7–11 cm. They have thin grey-brown fur and a tail nearly equal to their body length.

Cockroaches

Most common types found in food facilities

• German cockroach (Blattella germanica) – Small and light brown, with two dark stripes on the thorax. Nymphs look similar to adults but are smaller and darker, with a pale line running along the thorax.
• American cockroach (Blattella americana) – Large and reddish-brown, and capable of flying. Some have a pale yellow area on the thorax. Males have longer wings that extend past the abdomen, while females’ wings are shorter.

Birds

Common Urban Birds Affecting Singapore Hotels

• Pigeons – Columba livia domestica - Pigeons are commonly found around Singapore buildings and food areas. An infestation is indicated by:– Large flocks on roofs or near hotel entrances– Constant cooing or noise disturbance– Heavy droppings on pavements, structures, or signage
• Seagulls – Laridae - In coastal areas such as Sentosa or East Coast, seagulls tend to stay year-round instead of migrating, leading to population growth and increased nuisance.

Bird Behavior

Urban birds adapt quickly to Singapore’s built environment. They scavenge food from trash bins or outdoor dining areas, spreading debris and attracting other pests. Their rapid reproduction and persistent behaviour make them challenging to control.

Flying Insects

Common Types in Singapore Hotels

Fruit flies, house flies, and mosquitoes are frequently found in hotel kitchens, outdoor dining spaces, pool areas, and waste disposal zones. In Singapore’s humid conditions, these pests breed rapidly and can disturb guests, often leading to negative reviews or complaints.

Damage Caused by Flying Insects

Flies transmit diseases like salmonella and E. coli, while mosquitoes spread dengue fever - a major concern in Singapore - along with other mosquito-borne illnesses.

Hotels must comply with NEA guidelines, and infestations can lead to fines or temporary operational shutdowns. Negative guest feedback can significantly affect bookings.

• Transmission of diseases
• Sanctions
• Negative reviews