What is a Pest?

A pest is considered to be any organism, animal or plant, which poses a threat to our health, our property, or simply causes concern. Whilst the term pest is usually applied to animals, some plants can also be included as pests. Examples of plant pests include common weeds, as well as plant pathogenic fungi and viruses. Animal pests include agricultural pests which damage crops or are detrimental to the health of livestock, in addition to any potentially harmful animals carrying diseases (often referred to as vermin). Some organisms may in fact be considered a pest in some circumstances, whilst posing no threat or concern under other circumstances.