Ants Facts and Information

Ants are one of the easier-to-identify insects because of how frequently we encounter them and their distinct appearance. They have three body segments (head, thorax, and abdomen), six legs, and short, bent antennae. Most ants are black, brown, red, or yellow. Ants are small, social insects that play important roles in the ecosystem. They act as pollinators, help aerate the soil, recycle decaying debris, and provide food for other animals. Unfortunately, ants don't stay outside, away from us and our homes. They often nest in or near our yards and find their way into our homes, where they become unwanted and difficult-to-eliminate pests.

While ants aren't the worst pests that can visit your property, their presence shouldn't be ignored. When ants are in our homes, they contaminate our food, spread bacteria over surfaces, and sometimes create unpleasant odors. While most ants are nuisance pests, some dangerous ants in California pose significant threats to people and properties. Harmful ants can spread disease-causing pathogens, deliver painful stings, or cause structural damage.

Ant colonies divide their members into different groups, each tasked with a specific job. Worker ants make up the bulk of any ant colony and perform duties like caring for the young, maintaining the nest, and foraging for food. While out and about, if worker ants come across an open trash can, a bowl of pet food, or garden pests like aphids producing honeydew (a sticky sweet substance ants love), they will alert the rest of the colony by laying down a pheromone trail. Their ability to communicate with each other is why ant infestations tend to happen very quickly and why ant colonies are so successful.

Most ants prefer to nest outside, and their nesting sites depend on their species: - Soil Nests: Some ants build nests in the soil in open sunny areas. - Damp Areas: Others choose damp soil under mulch, woodpiles, or fallen trees. - Cracks and Crevices: Some nest in the cracks of pavement or cement walls. - Decaying Wood: Certain species nest in pieces of decaying wood. The closer an ant nest is to your home, the more likely these pests will wind up inside as they forage for food and water. When ants enter our homes searching for sustenance, we often see them traveling over surfaces in kitchens, pantries, bathrooms, and dining areas. Sometimes ants make their presence permanent by building nests indoors. Our homes offer ants safe shelter and easy access to food and water. Common indoor nesting sites include: - Wall voids - Crawl spaces - Structural wood - Spaces behind cabinets or trim - Vents and electrical equipment

Ants in California can easily move onto our properties and take over our homes. If ants have become a problem in your house, it's best not to try to eliminate them yourself. The most effective pest control for ants is professional pest control services. At The Termite Guy, we offer monthly, bimonthly, or quarterly pest control services needed to get rid of ants and prevent them from returning. We guarantee our services, aiming to help our customers maintain a pest-free home. To learn more about ant control solutions in Orange, Los Angeles, and Ventura Counties, contact one of our friendly professionals today!

Use the following ant prevention tips to help stop ants from taking over your property's indoor or outdoor spaces: 1. Seal Entry Points: - Caulk cracks and crevices. - Seal spaces around wires and pipes. - Install mesh covers on chimneys and vents. 2. Eliminate Excess Moisture: - Repair leaky pipes and outdoor fixtures. - Fix irrigation systems that may be causing damp areas. 3. Maintain Cleanliness: - Regularly remove trash from your home. - Wash dishes daily to prevent food residue. 4. Properly Store Trash: - Keep outdoor trash cans away from the exterior of your home. - Ensure trash cans have locking lids. 5. Clean Surfaces: - Vacuum and wipe down surfaces to remove spills, crumbs, and food debris. Despite your best efforts, ants can still find their way onto properties. If you are dealing with an ant infestation, contact us today to learn more about our home pest control solutions for ants.