Ant Identification & Prevention

What are ants?

Most of the more than 10,000 species of ants living worldwide live in tropical rainforests and other areas away from people. However, many also found their way into our yards and homes, where they become unwanted guests. The sight of ants in your Southern California home can make any homeowner roll their eye and utter the words, “Not again!”

Ants are regular invaders into homes and businesses in our area and across the country. You can identify them by their three distinct body parts and defined waist, and they come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, red, and yellow. In our area, four of the most common species of ants we run into are Argentine ants, red imported fire ants, rover ants, and carpenter ants.

Are ants dangerous?

While many ants are considered only a nuisance, the truth is that any ants, especially those living in our homes, pose some element danger to us. All ants carry bacteria on them that they pick up from their travels and that they can spread onto surfaces throughout a home. You should discard any food that has been contaminated by ants.

Species of ants that we know are dangerous are those that bite or sting (fire ants), that damage the structures of homes (carpenter ants), and those that spread disease-causing pathogens that make people ill. Some species of ants also invade and damage electrical and farm equipment.

Why do I have an ant problem?

The reality is, ants live outside all around us and are always searching for food to feed their large colonies. Some ant colonies can have thousands to hundreds of thousands of ants! If they discover that they can forage for food from your trash cans, gardens, pet’s food, or compost, they will, without hesitation! Once comfortable on your property, it is only a matter of time before they will move inside to look for more food or even to create a satellite nest to help expand their colony.

Where will I find ants?

Most species of ants create their central nest outside, but often also build satellite nests indoors, especially when the weather outside becomes unsuitable. Argentine ants, rover ants, and carpenter ants commonly find their way into our homes.

Carpenter ants nest within structural wood, causing damage that is expensive and difficult to repair in the process. Argentine ants and rover ants nest behind walls, electrical outlets, large appliances, or under floors near hot water pipes or leaky pipes. Both species also like to nest in the soil of potted plants.

Red imported fire ants are a type of ant that rarely nests inside. They prefer to nest out in open sunny areas. They are a common problem in yards, parks, athletic fields, and golf courses.

How do I get rid of ants?

The first step you should take to get rid of ants from your property is to contact a professional. At Admiral Pest Control, our professionals know the steps they need to take to eliminate ants and prevent a re-infestation.

We are our area’s oldest family-run pest control company, and we take care of all our customers as if they are part of our family. If you are looking to rid your southern Los Angeles County or Orange County residential or commercial property of pests, reach out to the friendly and knowledgeable professionals at Admiral Pest Control. Call us today to learn more about our ant control services!

How can I prevent ants in the future?

Ants and other pests are difficult to prevent, so the best prevention tip is always to partner with a trained and experienced professional. Also, use the following tips from Admiral Pest Control to help you avoid problems with ants:

• Rid your yard of what ants are looking for, which is food. Place tight-fitting lids on trash cans and recycling and compost bins.
• Reduce their desire to nest on your property by getting rid of leaf piles, fallen trees, and tree stumps.
• Place covers over vents and seal off spaces around wires and cables to stop ants from using them as a roadway into your home.
• Seal up any cracks or openings you find in the foundation or exterior walls of your house.
• Stop providing them with water by fixing leaky pipes and fixtures.
• Reduce humidity levels in your home using dehumidifiers and air conditioners.