Ant Identification & Prevention

What are ants?

Ants are insects that belong to the family Formicidae and live in colonies with social structures. A typical ant colony consists of reproductive ants, worker ants, and soldier ants, and most invasive ant colonies tend to grow quite large without effective home pest control.

There are many different ant species out there, and ants range in color from red to black and dark brown. Some ants even have patterns like spots of white, while other ants will grow quite large and have wings.

The main species of ants you need to keep an eye out for on your property include fire ants, ghost ants, carpenter ants, white-footed ants, and acrobat ants. Southern Home & Outdoor Services is ready to help with the identification of these pests on your property.

Are ants dangerous?

Ants are dangerous pest invaders for a few different reasons. To start with, ants easily track bacteria and pathogens onto the surfaces where they scavenge. Illnesses like salmonella or gastrointestinal issues are often a result of ant infestations.

Additionally, all ants can bite or sting humans. Ant species like the fire ant tend to sting repeatedly and leave behind painful swollen areas, and all ants may trigger allergic reactions. Symptoms like difficulty breathing or swallowing after receiving an ant bite need immediate medical attention.

Why do I have an ant problem?

Ants problems often occur on properties that have many ant-attracting factors on display. Easy access to food, water, and secluded areas for nesting make your property more hospitable to these pests. A great way to support pest control in Melbourne, FL, is to reduce or remove access to these ant-attracting factors.

Where will I find ants?

Worker ants are often seen outside foraging for food in lawns, mulch, and garden areas. They are also seen traveling together in groups along sidewalks, driveways, and fencelines. Their outdoor nesting locations are usually located in the soil under woodpiles, next to sidewalks or foundations, under landscaping ties, or in rotting logs.

How do I get rid of ants?

Get rid of ants invading your property by reaching out to the best commercial pest control company around: Southern Home & Outdoor Services. Our pest management professionals will help you identify the ant invaders on your property and work with you to craft treatment solutions that fully remove infestations of these pests. Request a free inspection today to get started.

How can I prevent ants in the future?

The following ant prevention tips can help you deter future infestations of ants from occurring:

Store all leftover food properly and never leave out food or drink spills, as easy food access attracts ants to your property.
Dispose of trash promptly and tightly seal all trash bags, and use trash cans with lids to stop ants from scavenging in these areas.
Seal up gaps around windows, doors, and the foundation of your house to stop ants from slipping inside.
Invest in window and door screens and add weatherstripping to fully insulate your interior areas against ants.
Clear away long grass, piles of debris, and woodpiles from around exterior areas in order to remove ant harborage areas.

If you want more information on ant prevention or need assistance removing an infestation of ants from your property, contact Southern Home & Outdoor Services today.