Ant Identification
What are ants?
Ants are one of the most regular visitors to our homes, and anywhere else they can find sources of food, water, and shelter- restaurants, warehouses, and hospitals are good examples.
Ants are social insects and a difficult pest to control. The members of an ant colony work with each other, communicate effectively, problem-solve, and can maintain multiple nesting sites.
Below is a list of the most problematic ants living throughout Utah County:
- Carpenter ants
- Harvester ants
- Odorous house ants
- Pavement ants
Are ants dangerous?
Though their small size may lead you to believe that ants aren’t dangerous, the truth is that some species can cause big problems for people. Some, like the carpenter ant, cause structural damage when they nest within pieces of flooring, support beams, and other structural wood. Others carry pathogens that make people sick, and some deliver painful bites and stings.
Luckily, most ants that regularly infest our homes are considered nuisance pests. While they are certainly unwelcome in our houses because of their ability to spread bacteria and contaminate food- they aren’t dangerous.
Why do I have an ant problem?
Ants have become a problem property because it does not only provide you with the things you need but that ants need.
Homes provide ants with access to food, water, and, if necessary, shelter away from harsh weather elements and predators. Once ants find a property that can offer them access to their necessities, they will keep returning and won’t leave without a fight!
Where will I find ants?
Where ants decide to nest varies by species, but most prefer to nest in areas of damp soil that they find next to buildings, sidewalks, landscaping ties, and under mulch or rocks. Some species like to nest in pieces of wood or under things like tree stumps or fallen trees.
When ants are nesting in our yards, it puts them near our homes, making it fairly easy for them to find a way into our homes. Ants find their way inside of structures through spaces they find around windows and doors, the foundation, or vents or utilities entering your home. They are usually attracted by food odors or moisture.
Ants are active during the day, and it is common to see them trailing around your home searching for food and water. If they have decided to nest in your home, they are likely placed in spots out of your direct reach like attics, crawlspaces, wall voids, or pieces of structural wood.
How do I get rid of ants?
Ants are pests that, despite being common, are quite difficult to prevent and eliminate. The best way to get rid of ants from your property is by partnering with us at Bug Wranglers. We offer eco-friendly and kid-friendly ant control solutions that provide our customers peace of mind and a home free of unwanted ants. Our professionals always begin with an inspection and then work with you to develop a custom pest control plan.
When you partner with us, you can ensure that we will provide you with the right pest control services for your home and family. If you live in Utah County and want to learn more about guarding your Springville home against ants, contact us today!
How can I prevent ants in the future?
Prevent major issues with ants with the help of the pest control experts in Springville at Bug Wranglers! Here are some of our most helpful prevention tips.
Seal off all possible entry points- seal cracks in the foundation, install door sweeps under exterior doors, and place mesh covers over vents.
Use caulk or steel wool to seal spaces around pipes and other utilities entering your home.
Remove possible food sources from your yard- keep lids on trashcans, maintain gardens, keep outdoor eating areas clean.
Maintain a clean kitchen to remove crumbs and other debris that ants could use as a food source.
Whether you feed your pets indoors or outdoors, pick up any pet food they haven’t eaten to keep it out of the reach of hungry ants.
Remove the ant’s access to water by repairing leaky pipes and dripping faucets and air-conditioners.