(NC)-Carpenter ants are among the smallest creatures on the earth, but don't let their size fool you. A carpenter ant infestation can cause major structural damage to your home.
According to the experts at Orkin Canada, carpenter ants are one of the most common species of ants in Canadian homes and can be seen swarming in late spring and early summer. Often confused with termites, carpenter ants measure 3 to12 mm in length and are black or black and red in color.
These pests have an amazing ability to chew large amounts of wood and turn it into fine sawdust. In addition, they are attracted to human foods, such as honey and fruit.
"Carpenter ants are especially difficult insects to control because they are so resourceful," said Orkin Director of Quality Assurance Zia Siddiqi, Ph.D. "Decaying, moist wood attracts carpenter ants, and these pests can inhabit a number of places - under windows, behind bathroom tiles, in porch areas and even behind water-damaged flooring under a dishwasher."
To help prevent carpenter ants, homeowners should follow these tips:
- Eliminate moist conditions within your home through proper ventilation.
- Keep wood from directly touching the soil and remove old lumber, stumps and other wood piles from the yard, if possible.
- Store firewood as far away from the house as possible to prevent the pests from living near the house.
- Secure all food in sealed containers and make sure food preparation and storage areas are free of crumbs.
Unfortunately, the first signs of an infestation may not appear until long after carpenter ants form a colony. When homeowners identify small piles of sawdust or several sizes of working ants crawling along a countertop, it's important to take action immediately. A pest management professional can locate and destroy the nest and implement any additional treatments needed. More information is available online at http://www.orkincanada.ca or toll-free at 1 800 800-ORKIN.
Credit: http://www.newscanada.com
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