Pests are common in Baldwyne homes with many of them causing plenty of problems for homeowners. Of these many different pests, the ant is arguably the most confusing since they range from being a mere nuisance to actually causing damage to your property. Where they fall on this spectrum depends on entirely what kind of ant had invaded the home.
That's why it's important to understand some of the most common species of ant to the Baldwyne area, which includes, but aren't limited to:
- Carpenter Ants: This ant boasts the distinction of being one of the largest in the area as well as the most destructive. While they don't feed on wood as termites do, this black ant does create tunnels and nesting areas within the wood leading to structural problems if left unchecked.
- Argentine Ants: When the weather turns harsh, you'll often find these ants invading your home. While they aren't a danger to your health or property, the sheer number within a colony can still create problems. Also, they're attracted to moisture, which could indicate you have a moisture problem somewhere in the house. They are brown or black in color and give off a musty odor when crushed.
- Odorous House Ants: The typical nuisance of the group, this small black ant likes to crawl over food and other surfaces and is further identified by the rotten coconut smell they give off when crushed.
- Pharoah Ants: Pale yellow to light brown, the pharoah ant lives in large colonies and are challenging to control due to their ability to pick up and create new colonies as needed. They also spread a range of diseases including salmonella and Streptococcus. While more common in places of business, they'll invade homes just as easily.
Attraction Factors To Consider
Like any other pest, ants will invade homes because there is something inside that attracts them. The first step to controlling the ant population is to understand these attraction factors such as:
- Left Out Food: These pests are very happy to eat your crumbs and crawl over your untouched food. If it's accessible, they will come.
- Standing Water: Ants need moisture as much as any other pest. When standing water or other sources of equally accessible water is available, they invade your home and make it theirs.
- Sugary Substances: Some ants are highly attracted to sugar, which means sugared drinks, desserts, and other similar items act as a beacon for this pest.
Actively Prevent Ant Infestations
Their habit of colonization and their small size makes it nearly impossible to enjoy proper ant control. That's why it's much better to actively prevent ant infestations from happening in the first place. Some things you can do to remain protected are:
- Food Storage: The more you store the food properly the less likely ants are to discover the nummy treats you have. Use plastic containers with lids that seal shut and keep the food in the fridge and freezer for the best results.
- Remove The Water: Leaks under the sink, pooling water in the gutters, and other sources of water need to be addressed quickly to keep ants from becoming interested in your property.
- No Trash: Besides your food, ants are attracted to rotting things like trash. For this reason, you need trashcans with lids that seal shut. Also, make sure trash disposal occurs far away from your house.
- Seal Entry Points: Cracks, crevices, and holes are easy ways for ants to get inside. That's why it's important to seal these entry points up using silicone caulk. If they can't get inside, they can't be the cause of infestation.
Also, be sure to check the windowsills and doorways, which is a favorite spot for them.
Keep The Ants Out With McCary Pest Control
Ants don't belong in the home for any reason. That's why our professional team at McCary Pest Control is ready to step in to ensure you get your home ant-free and keep it that way. As a locally owned and operated company using eco-friendly products, we have the necessary equipment and training to ensure even the most difficult colony doesn't remain after we've completed our treatment. Call us at McCary Pest Control today!