Ants are one of the most common household pests. Once these pests have taken up occupancy in the home they can be very difficult get rid of. Learning proper pest control strategies will go a long way in being able to eradicate any ant issues in or around the home. There are several different types of ants that may be found within the home. For this reason, the first step in pest management is to correctly identify what you are dealing with.
Carpenter ants can be found in homes. These ants are black or red in color. This type of ant is sometimes mistaken for termites. However, termites require a very different pest control method. To help you identify the type of pest you’re dealing with, keep in mind that termites are light colored while ants are dark colored. You can also distinguish between the two by looking at their antennae. This is because ants have bent antennae and termites don’t. Despite popular belief, carpenter ants don’t eat wood. However, they do chew tunnels to nest and travel through though.
When dealing with carpenter ants, prevention is always the best form of pest control. However, a widespread infestation can make even the most effective form of pest management difficult to carry out. Fortunately, pest removal is not impossible. The best way to take care of an existing problem is to locate and destroy the nest. Since locating a carpenter ant is difficult for the average homeowner to do, you may want to contact an exterminator. To solve your pest issue, an exterminator may drill small holes into the walls and apply an insecticidal dust into the nest. If the nest is exposed, insecticides can be sprayed directly on the nest. If the nest can’t be located, however, baits may be used.
Once an effective form of pest management has been found, prevention is instrumental in making sure that another infestation doesn’t occur. Eliminate high moisture conditions and replace moisture damaged woods. Store any wood as far away from the house as possible. Also, remove any tree stumps, shrubs or roots. You may also want to trim branches that overhang the house.
The common ant is another pest that sometimes makes its way indoors. They are sometimes mistaken for carpenter ants but are usually smaller. Common ants make their way inside when it is still somewhat cool out. This is because they’re searching for dry shelter, food, and water. Common ants can be managed by using baits or having an exterminator come out to the home and spray an insecticide. Sealing any cracks and crevices in the home can also prevent entry.
Flying ants are not a separate species of ants as they are commonly thought to be. They are ants that are at the mating stage of the life cycle and are usually of the same species of other nearby wingless ants. The best way to manage flying ants is to destroy the nest before mating season occurs and the flying ants swarm. The preventative methods used for carpenter ants also applies to flying ants.
Regardless of whether you’re dealing with carpenter ants, common ants or flying ants, professional pest control is usually necessary. This is because a professional possesses the know-how and equipment needed to eliminate these critters.
Rose is an experienced pest control professional who has worked at several large pest control companies, such as Terminix and now dedicates her time in giving back to the community by educating the general public.
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