Experts have identified more than 12,000 species of ants worldwide. Ants have six legs, large heads, elbowed antennae, and a fairly strong exoskeleton that protects their body. They are typically social creatures that create large nests (colonies) with thousands of others. The group is loosely divided into roles as queens, workers, those responsible for reproduction, and others.
Some of the most problematic types of ants that plague property owners in the Jacksonville region include:
- Fire ants: Known for creating large visible mounds at nesting sites, fire ants are very small, appear reddish-brown, and will deliver a painful sting.
- Pharaoh ants: Rarely exceeding two millimeters in length, pharaoh ants very commonly invade structures where food sources are plentiful and usually soon build a nest indoors.
- Acrobat ants: Aptly named for their habit of extending their abdomen over their head, acrobat ants are approximately three millimeters long and appear in shades of dark brown or black.
- Crazy ants: Named for their unpredictable and erratic movements, crazy ants range from two to three millimeters long, appear in shades of either dark brown or black, and are most likely to venture indoors when the weather is cool.
What Is Attracting Ants To The Property?
Ants are opportunistic scavengers that are commonly found in homes with dirty dishes in the sink, crumbs on the floor, and spills on countertops. Once some ants identify a food source, many more will likely follow in droves because these creatures leave a chemical trail of pheromones that serves as a means of communication.
Ants are cold-blooded insects; therefore, they may attempt to move indoors when the weather is especially hot or cold. Effective prevention begins with addressing outdoor ant control concerns first because these creatures are so tiny that they can usually find a small entry point as they begin exploring the exterior of a structure.
Tips For Indoor And Outdoor Ant Control
Limiting access to food sources is critical to prevent ants. Avoid attracting ants to the property’s exterior areas by keeping lids on garbage cans, cleaning up thoroughly after barbeques and picnics, and promptly removing fallen fruit. Closely inspect the exterior of the structure, particularly near the base, for cracks or crevices and fill them with a durable caulk or sealant.
Promptly take action to eradicate nests that are positioned close to the exterior of the structure. Install sweeps on exterior doors, fix torn screens, and apply weatherstripping to gaps that exist around windows. Keep kitchen area floors swept, countertops wiped clean, and ensure all garbage cans containing food scraps have tightly fitting lids.
Contacting Local Pest Extermination Professionals
Trad’s Pest Control is well equipped and professionally trained regarding how to repel termites as well as ants, spiders, fleas, and many other meddling pests that invade homes and may present health risks. We will visit the property to conduct a detailed interior and exterior property inspection to assess the type(s) of pest involved and the extent of the intrusion. As a local company, we are also concerned with ensuring that we operate in a manner that protects the environment that we share.
Leading Company for Ant Control In Jacksonville
Are you looking for the best pest control company for ants in this region? Trad’s Pest Control has been an industry leader in this region for decades now. Part of our success is attributed to a firm commitment to providing the highest-quality customer service and standing behind the quality of our work with a satisfaction guarantee.
Contact us today for a consultation. Remember to ask your representative about our customized year-round protection plans that have proven to keep properties pest-free.