Ant Identification & Prevention

Ants are small, social insects that live in colonies. These colonies can contain hundreds to thousands of ants that can survive for years. Each ant has a specific role in the colony, such as food gathering, nest building, and even protection. Ants usually range from 1/10 to 1/4 of an inch long and vary in color from reddish-brown to black. Ants inhabit almost every place on the planet, with some species living in tropical or desert climates and others living in more arctic-cold areas. Other common characteristics of these insects include two antennae, three body parts (head, thorax, and abdomen), and a segmented abdomen. Some ants also have wings. Types of ants commonly causing problems in and around homes include carpenter ants, pavement, and odorous house ants.

Ants are generally nuisance pests that can cause damage to food and property, but they are not typically dangerous. However, certain kinds of ants, like fire ants, can cause painful bites and stings that may require medical attention in the case of an allergic reaction. Some ants can pose a threat to your health by carrying disease-causing bacteria or other parasites. Carpenter ants can cause serious damage to the structure of your home by creating tunnels through the wood. In general, it's best to take steps to prevent ants from entering your home. D&K Pest Control can help you identify the type of ant on your property and provide ant control solutions to keep them out.

While ants are generally harmless, they can become a nuisance if they start nesting or foraging inside your home. Ants need food and water to survive, so any crumb or spill left on the counter or floor may attract them. Other common causes of ant problems include having cracks in the foundation or other entry points where ants can enter. Additionally, other factors, such as harsh weather, can also cause an increase in ant activity. You can help prevent ants from entering your home by keeping food and water sources sealed away and repairing any cracks or gaps in the foundation.

While you can find ants inside or outside your home, inside, you may find them in kitchens and bathrooms as they search for food and water sources. Outside, look for them around trees, plants, and mulch where there are likely food sources. They may also nest near your foundation and enter through cracks or other openings in the walls. While the occasional ant sighting is usually nothing to worry about, large numbers of ants inside or outside may indicate an infestation you should address as soon as possible.

If you have an ant problem, the most important thing to remember is to act quickly. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to get rid of them. While there are some DIY ant pest control methods out there, the best way to eliminate these pests and make sure they don't return is to contact a professional like D&K Pest Control. Our experts can identify the type of ants on your property and provide solutions to remove them. We can also offer ongoing home pest control for ants to prevent them from returning. 

Once you've removed ants from your property, there are some steps you can take to help prevent them from returning:

• Keep food and water sources to a minimum, especially in warm months. Store food in containers with tight-fitting lids and immediately clean up any spills or crumbs. 
• Seal cracks and other entry points around the foundation of your home.
• Reduce moisture levels in areas where ants tend to gather by installing dehumidifiers or repairing leaky pipes. 
• Remove any standing water near your home, as this can attract ants looking for a source of hydration. 
• Practice outdoor ant control methods, such as trimming back plants and trees from the house. 
• Regularly inspect the exterior of your home for signs of ant activity and call a professional pest control company if needed.

D&K Pest Control can help you identify and prevent ants on your property. Our team of experts will work with you to develop a plan for ant control in your house that matches your needs and budget. Contact us today for more information about our pest control solutions in Aurora.