Ant Identification

What are ants?

Frequent and persistent pests, ants are among the most common invaders of homes and businesses in the Roseville and the Greater Sacramento area and throughout the United States. Ants are social insects, living and working together in large groups, with most colonies having multiple nesting spots. All ants have three body regions (head, thorax, and abdomen), a pair of bent antennae, and the reproductive members have wings. Most species are dark brown or black but come in various colors, including red and yellow. They also vary in size from less than 1/16 of an inch to more than 3/4 of an inch.

dozens of ants on a kitchen floor

Are ants dangerous?

Whether or not an ant is considered dangerous to people or properties depends on its exact species. Most ants that we come across are nuisance pests and don’t pose significant harm, spread diseases, or cause structural damage. There are, however, species that are considered dangerous, like carpenter ants, that damage structures, and other species of ants that spread bacteria and parasites that make people ill. But, when it comes down to it, no property owner wants to deal with any species of ant invading their space, damaging their home or business, contaminating their food, and being a general annoyance. 

Why do I have an ant problem?

When living outdoors, ants nest in a variety of locations, including:

  • In the soil next to sidewalks, foundations, and cement slabs

  • In gardens under mulch

  • Under rocks, stones, and woodpiles.

  • Under fallen trees and in tree stumps

  • In open areas like yards, parks, and golf courses

Those ants that find their way inside usually choose to nest in dark, warm, damp locations-behind wall voids, in crawl spaces, attics, and in areas around hot water pipes. They also commonly nest behind large appliances and cabinets.

Where will I find ants?

Ants live in rural and suburban areas and invade our properties to take advantage of food, water, and shelter sources. If they discover easy access to food, they will return continuously to gather food for their colony. Once ants find food sources in your yard or home, they often stay and build satellite nests for their growing colony, worsening the ant problem on your property.

How do I get rid of ants?

Partnering with the local pest control experts at Neighborly Pest Management is your best solution for home or business owners who want to get rid of ants from their property. We are the Roseville and the Greater Sacramento area's best defense against pests. We've been committed to keeping homes and businesses free of insects, rodents, and other pests for more than four decades. Our team of professionals works with our customers to eliminate ants and prevent them from returning in the future. Learn more about our 100% guaranteed pest control services by contacting Neighborly Pest Management today!

How can I prevent ants in the future?

Partnering with a pest control professional is the best way to prevent ants and other pests problems. In addition, implementing the following prevention tips will help keep ants off of your property and out of your Northern California home. 

  • Cut back overgrown vegetation and place garden areas farther away from the outside walls of your house.

  • Regularly harvest fruits and vegetables from gardens.

  • Leave a stone or rock barrier between any mulch or soil and the foundation of your home.

  • Seal up cracks in the foundation and repair any holes along your roofline.

  • Make sure window and door screens are entirely intact to keep ants out of your home.

  • Keep tight-fitting or locking lids on outdoor trash cans and compost bins.

  • Reduce moisture in and around your home; use dehumidifiers to keep basements dry and fix leaky pipes and fixtures. 

Helpful Articles

Sacramento Homeowner's Guide To Complete Ant Prevention

The Secret To Effective Ant Control For Roseville Properties

 

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