Ants are among the most prevalent pests in existence, found on most continents in many thousands of different species. Relative to their small size, ants are incredibly strong creatures. Although most types are characterized as mostly a nuisance, some types can pose health risks or create costly property damage.
How Can I Tell Ants Apart?
Ants have six legs, large heads, antennae, and appear in many different colors.
Some of the most commonly found types in this region include:
- Pavement ants: These ants have a dark brown or black appearance, and measure approximately 1/8th of an inch. They are often found within masonry walls near the ground, cracks in the pavement, or under stones.
- Odorous house ants: They appear in shades of brown or black, and rarely exceed 1/8th of an inch. These ants are strongly attracted to sweets, and prefer to nest near sources of moisture. If stepped on, these pests emit a strange odor comparable to rotten coconuts.
- Carpenter ants: They appear in dark shades, and are among the largest sized ants. These ants will tunnel through wood to create nests, which can create possible property damage.
Understanding Ant Colonies And The Difficulty Of Removing Them
Most ants exist in large colonies composed of thousands of members that have specific roles, including laying eggs, feeding larvae, or foraging for food. In many cases, the colony will exist outdoors near a structure, and the ants will travel indoors for food. A queen from one colony will often leave to establish a new nest nearby, sometimes in response to the detection of insecticide treatments.
Tips For Preventing Ants
Ants are much less likely to infest areas that lack moisture. Therefore, it is critical to regularly clean gutters and downspouts, and repair leaking spigots or garden hoses. Closely look at the structure’s foundation for any cracks or other openings that may allow them access inside. Limit entry points by installing door sweeps, applying weather stripping around the seals of windows and doors, and using caulk or other material to fill crevices.
Promptly cleaning up crumbs and spills is critical to preventing ants. Avoid leaving dirty dishes out overnight, and place leftovers in sealed containers. Trash cans should have properly functioning lids to prevent access.
Contact A Professional Exterminator To Eliminate Ants
Avoid trying store-bought do-it-yourself treatment options that often are insufficient to remove large ant infestations. These products are commonly marketed using overhyped and farfetched claims of being a very simple and easy solution. In reality, positive outcomes are rare among users of these aerosol sprays and traps that prolong the problem, and foster feelings of aggravation.
Why choose Action Pest Control for removing colonies of ants? We complete a comprehensive assessment by inspecting doors, windows, exterior vents, utility entries, and surface areas, including sidewalks and driveways. Based on the set of circumstances, we will use bait formulations and other products that act as a means of repelling ants.
Experienced Professional Pest Control Company In Louisville
Action Pest Control is among the leading pest extermination companies that currently serves home and business owners in Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. Our commitment to quality service and excellent customer support has resulted in significant growth that is reflected in having a team of now roughly 70 professionals. We now employ board-certified entomologists, and the organization has been the recipient of several awards and forms of professional recognition.
Our seasoned technicians are supplied with many of the latest products, tools, and equipment to efficiently eradicate ants, bed bugs, termites, and various other problematic creatures that may create property damage and potential health risks. Contact us today to schedule a detailed interior and exterior inspection of your Louisville property that will assess the nature and extent of the problem, and provide you with the best ant control services in Louisville.