Objects of the present invention are to provide a compound which is highly active against pests, to provide a pest control agent comprising the compound, and to provide a method for controlling a pest by applying the compound. The present invention provides a 4-(arylethynyl)pyridine or a salt thereof, a pest control agent which comprises the 4-(arylethynyl)pyridine or salt thereof as an active ingredient, and a method for controlling a pest by applying the 4-(arylethynyl)pyridine or salt thereof in an effective amount.