As the weather warms, our phones are ringing off the hook, and guess what the top concern is? Ants! From kitchen invasions to lawn takeovers, these tiny invaders are making a big impact.

To help you understand these common pests and how we can assist, we’ve compiled some essential information from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), along with our local expertise.

Understanding the Ant Invasion

Ants are incredibly successful insects, forming complex colonies that can quickly become a nuisance. While there are over 700 species in the U.S. and Canada, only about 25 commonly infest homes. Understanding their biology and habits is key to effective control.

Common Ant Culprits in the Triangle Area

Here are some of the most frequent ant invaders we encounter:

  • Odorous House Ants:
    • These small ants emit a distinctive, rotten coconut-like odor when crushed.
    • They’re drawn to sweets, especially melons.
    • They nest in soil and wall voids.
    • While not a health risk, they can contaminate food.
    • Prevention: Eliminate standing water, trim vegetation away from your home, and seal cracks and openings.
  • Red Imported Fire Ants:
    • Known for their aggressive stings and mound-shaped nests.
    • They nest outdoors but can enter garages and homes.
    • Their stings are painful and can cause severe allergic reactions.
    • Prevention: Avoid their mounds and seal all entry points to your home.
  • Carpenter Ants:
    • These ants can cause structural damage by nesting in wood.
    • Colonies can grow very large.
    • Prevention: Remove rotting wood from around the home, and seal cracks.

Key Ant Facts:

  • Ants are social insects living in colonies.
  • They’re attracted to sweets and proteins.
  • They can contaminate food.
  • Fire ant stings can be dangerous.

Our Approach to Ant Control

At Advance Pest Control, we understand the unique challenges these pests pose. We offer:

  • Expert Identification: Accurate identification of the ant species is crucial for effective treatment.
  • Targeted Treatments: We use safe and effective methods to eliminate ant colonies and prevent future infestations.
  • Preventative Strategies: We provide practical tips to help you keep ants out of your home.

Let Us Help You!

Thank you for your continued support of Advance Pest Control. We’re committed to providing you with a pest-free environment, all year round. Contact us today to schedule your service! Or, to learn more about pests common to each season, visit our Seasonal Pests page.