Carpenter Ants: The Woodworkers of the Ant World

• Appearance – Carpenter ants are relatively large, ranging from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. They are usually black but can also be red or a combination of these colors.
• Habits – Unlike termites, carpenter ants don’t eat wood. Instead, they excavate it to create their nests, leaving behind a sawdust-like material called frass. Over time, their tunneling can weaken wooden structures.
• Preferred Locations – They are often found in damp or decaying wood, making areas with water damage especially attractive to them.
• Prevention Tips – Repair any water leaks promptly and replace rotten wood. Keep firewood stored away from the home.

Odorous House Ants: The Smelly Invaders

• Appearance – These ants are small, about 1/8 inch long, and brown or black.
• Habits – When crushed, they release a rotten coconut-like smell, hence their name. They are particularly attracted to sweet foods.
• Preferred Locations – They build their nests in a variety of locations, both indoors and outdoors, often near a moisture source.
• Prevention Tips – Clean up food spills immediately, especially sweets. Ensure that your home is free from moisture buildup.

Pavement Ants: The Ground Dwellers

• Appearance – Pavement ants are small, measuring about 1/8 inch, and are dark brown to black.
• Habits – They get their name because they often make their nests in or under cracks in the pavement. They can eat a variety of foods, including sweets, grease, and even other insects.
• Preferred Locations – Besides pavements, they can nest under floors, within walls, and under building foundations.
• Prevention Tips – Seal cracks in the foundation and pavement around your home. Keep food sources, especially sweets and greasy foods, sealed and out of reach.

Pharaoh Ants: The Tiny Troublemakers

• Appearance – Pharaoh ants are very small, about 1/16 inch long, and are yellow or light brown.
• Habits – They are known to be a nuisance in hospitals and other healthcare facilities as they can transmit diseases. They have a preference for sweet foods but will also eat other insects.
• Preferred Locations – They prefer warm, humid areas and can often be found in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Prevention Tips – Regularly clean up any food residues, especially sweets. Ensure that areas like kitchens and bathrooms are dry and well-ventilated.

Understanding the specific species of ants that invade homes is crucial in dealing with an infestation effectively. Each species has its quirks, and what works for one might not work for another. If you’re facing an ant problem, it’s essential to identify the species correctly and then take appropriate action. And remember, when in doubt, Orkin is always there to help!

Why Do Ants Enter Homes?

Ants, despite their tiny size, are complex creatures with specific needs and behaviors. When they venture into our homes, it’s not a random act but a calculated move driven by various factors. Let’s delve deeper into the reasons why ants might decide to make an appearance inside your living space.

Search for Food

The primary reason ants enter homes is to find food. Your home offers a plethora of food sources, from crumbs on the floor to unsealed food containers. Ants are particularly attracted to:

• Sugary Substances – Spilled sodas, candy, and even certain fruits can be a magnet for ants.
• Proteins – Meat scraps, pet food, or even dead insects can attract certain ant species looking for protein.
• Fats – Grease spots, oils, and certain dairy products can be enticing for ants.

Just like all living beings, ants need water to survive. Homes, especially areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, can provide a consistent water source. Leaky pipes, condensation, and even water dishes for pets can be a draw for thirsty ants.

Shelter from Adverse Conditions

Ants might move indoors to escape unfavorable outdoor conditions. This can include:

• Extreme Temperatures – During hot summers or cold winters, the regulated temperature inside homes can be appealing.
• Rain and Flooding – Excessive moisture or water can drown ants or destroy their colonies, pushing them to seek drier grounds indoors.
• Predators – The safety of your home can offer ants protection from natural predators.

Some ant species don’t just come inside for a quick food run; they decide to set up residence. Places like wall voids, under floors, or even within insulation can provide ideal nesting sites. Once they’ve established a colony, it can grow rapidly, leading to a full-blown infestation.

Natural Behavior and Pheromone Trails

Ants operate on a system of chemical signals. Scout ants, which are the first to venture out in search of food, leave a pheromone trail leading back to the colony. This trail guides other ants to the food source. If a scout ant finds its way into your home and discovers food, it won’t be long before a whole line of ants follows the trail.

Sometimes, ants can wander into homes purely by accident, especially if there are gaps, cracks, or other easy entry points. Over time, what starts as an accidental entry can turn into a regular pathway, especially if the ant finds something of interest inside.

Orkin’s Ant Control Solutions

At Orkin, we understand the biology and behavior of ants. Our approach is not just about eliminating the ants you see but targeting the entire colony. Here’s how we do it:

• Baiting Programs – We use specially formulated baits that worker ants carry back to the colony. Over time, this eliminates the entire colony from the inside out.
• Barrier Treatments – We apply contact insecticides around the perimeter of your home, creating a barrier that keeps ants out.
• Direct Nest Treatment – If we can locate the nest, we’ll treat it directly with effective insecticides, ensuring that the colony is eradicated.
• Regular Monitoring – Ant problems can reoccur. We’ll monitor your home and ensure that any new ant activity is dealt with promptly.

Why Choose Orkin?

• Expertise – We have a deep understanding of ant species and their habits.
• Safe and Effective Treatments – Our treatments are designed to be safe for your family and pets while being highly effective against ants.
• Customized Solutions – Every home is unique, and so is every ant problem. We tailor our solutions to your specific situation.

Call Orkin for Expert Ant Control

If you’re dealing with an ant infestation, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team of professionals is equipped with the knowledge and tools to handle any ant problem, ensuring your home remains a comfortable and ant-free space. Remember, the sooner you act, the easier it will be to manage the situation.

Contact Orkin today and let us help you keep your home ant-free.