Which is an example of a vertebrate pest?

Rodents are classified as vertebrate pests because they possess a backbone, which is a defining characteristic of vertebrates. This category includes animals with a bony or cartilaginous spinal column, such as mammals and birds. Rodents, in particular, are common pests that can cause significant damage to property and can also pose health risks by transmitting diseases.

In contrast, flies, arachnids, and insects belong to classifications that do not have a backbone. Flies are classified as insects, while arachnids include organisms like spiders and scorpions. All of these are invertebrates, meaning they lack a spinal column, and thus do not fit the criteria of vertebrate pests. Understanding these classifications is key in pest management, as the control measures can differ significantly between vertebrate and invertebrate pests.