Ants are common insects known for arriving without an invitation to barbeques, picnics, and other outdoor activities. Ants appear in colors such as red, brown, black, and yellow and have six legs and antennae. Because of their small bodies, ants can easily navigate their way indoors through small openings. Some of the common types of ants found in this region include fire ants, odorous house ants, raspberry or “crazy” ants, carpenter ants, pavement ants, and others.
What is the best homemade ant killer? Homeowners should avoid trying fabled home remedies or store-bought ant control products, as these efforts often prove insufficient and simply create prolonged frustration. Contacting a Phoenix pest control company is the best option. The pros understand how to control ants in houses safely and effectively.
The Life Cycle Of Ants: How Ant Colonies Develop
How do ant colonies work? Outside of an existing colony, winged ants gather in swarms before they seek to form new colonies. In many regions of the U.S., this mating season begins during the spring months; yet, in the Phoenix region, many species start the process in the late summertime. Female (queen) ants create eggs, which remain inside the nest until they emerge. Other workers in the colony generally assist with feeding and grooming the queen.
How many ants live in a colony? Ant colonies might house hundreds or thousands of others. However, some species have multiple queens and form massive colonies.
Are you wondering how to identify a queen ant? Each colony’s queen ant is typically among the largest-sized ants in the group. The queen is the lone female of the colony that reproduces.
Ant Dangers: Understanding The Risks Of An Infestation
Overall, the majority of ant species in Phoenix are dubbed as nuisance pests; yet, ants will contaminate food and surfaces during their travels. The health risks posed by ants include E. coli and salmonellosis.
How to help fire ant bites? Many of the individuals bitten by fire ants experience relatively mild symptoms. Washing the area of the skin with soap and water is a good first step. Antihistamines are commonly an effective means of reducing itchiness. Cold packs or ice are often helpful for dulling any lingering pain and reducing swelling.
Ant Prevention Tips: Keep Your Home Ant-Free
Are you seeking answers regarding how to prevent ants from entering your home and creating an infestation? Consider the following interior and exterior prevention methods:
- When taking bags containing food scraps outdoors, place them in a garbage can with a lid.
- Adopt diligent cleaning habits in kitchen areas to keep floors free of crumbs and counters and sinks free of food or beverage remnants.
- Repair or replace any torn window screens that might allow entry.
- Fill any voids, cracks, or other crevices around the exterior area of the foundation with a durable sealant.
Property owners should remember that ants have sensory abilities that function as ways of communicating with one another; therefore, contacting a local pest management professional before ants begin entering in droves is suggested.
Professional Ant Control: Eliminate The Infestation
What are the best methods for how to get rid of little ants? For a positive outcome, residents should avoid taking shortcuts and speak with the pros for swiftly eliminating ants. Uni-Tech Pest Control is a local provider of ant control for homeowners in the Phoenix region.
After receiving an inquiry from a homeowner facing a pest-related problem, we will deploy a trained technician to the premises who will perform a detailed assessment. This inspection is needed for determining the nature and extent of the intrusion and serves as the basis for a customized treatment plan.
We have years of experience assisting those struggling with rodents, termites, stinging insects, and many other troublesome pests. Contact our office today for further information.
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