Small though they might be, ants are incredibly complex creatures. With a complicated heirarchal society, methods of communication between individuals, clear division of labor within the community, and even surprisingly advanced problem-solving skills, ants have long been a subject of fascination for people the world over.
However, those complex lifestyles come into conflict with our own when they invade our homes. Just the sight of a trail of ants running across the kitchen countertop is repugnant to many. They can get into food supplies, ruining them. Carpenter ants will burrow into wood, hollowing it out and compromising its structural integrity. Some species can deliver a painful bite or sting. Some will even destroy crops. Clearly, the mighty ant can be a mighty pest!
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Do not leave food items out for an extended period of time. Eliminate any standing water, such as a slow drain or a clogged gutter. Trim back any decorate plants from around the outside of the building. Make sure all cracks and holes are sealed with caulk or sealing foam.
OUR TREATMENT
A program we've been having a lot of success with is the "Inside-Out" program. Both the interior and exterior of the home is sprayed using two different products. In addition, gel bait is a tried-and-true method for getting to the colony itself, instead of killing off the invaders ant by ant.
However, those complex lifestyles come into conflict with our own when they invade our homes. Just the sight of a trail of ants running across the kitchen countertop is repugnant to many. They can get into food supplies, ruining them. Carpenter ants will burrow into wood, hollowing it out and compromising its structural integrity. Some species can deliver a painful bite or sting. Some will even destroy crops. Clearly, the mighty ant can be a mighty pest!
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Do not leave food items out for an extended period of time. Eliminate any standing water, such as a slow drain or a clogged gutter. Trim back any decorate plants from around the outside of the building. Make sure all cracks and holes are sealed with caulk or sealing foam.
OUR TREATMENT
A program we've been having a lot of success with is the "Inside-Out" program. Both the interior and exterior of the home is sprayed using two different products. In addition, gel bait is a tried-and-true method for getting to the colony itself, instead of killing off the invaders ant by ant.
Unless otherwise indicated, all photos are courtesy Wikimedia Commons or the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.