Ants are one of the most common pests found in homes, and Michigan is no exception. With over 700 ant species in the U.S., about 25 of these are known to infest homes. While ants are small, their ability to form large, organized colonies can make them a serious nuisance. Ants are social insects that live in colonies, typically underground, with a queen and worker ants that perform various tasks, from gathering food to expanding the nest.
Ants are opportunistic feeders and will eat almost anything, but they’re particularly drawn to sweets, making your kitchen and pantry prime targets. Identifying ants is relatively simple: they have three distinct body parts—head, thorax, and abdomen—along with antennae. While they share a similar structure, ants vary in size and color, with common varieties being small or large, black or brown.
How to Spot an Ant Infestation in Your Home
If you notice ants inside your home, it could be a sign of an infestation. These industrious insects usually venture indoors in search of food, moisture, and shelter. Ants are most commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where food and water are readily available. It’s important to act quickly, as a single ant trail often indicates a larger colony nearby. The sooner you can address the problem, the easier it will be to prevent it from escalating.
Why You Need Professional Ant Extermination
While DIY methods might help temporarily control an ant problem, the most effective way to handle an infestation is by contacting a pest control professional. Experts are trained to accurately identify the ant species causing the issue and provide targeted treatments that will eliminate the colony at its source. Ant species can vary in behavior, and what works for one may not work for another, which is why professional pest control is recommended.
How to Prevent and Control Ants in Your Home
Preventing an ant infestation starts with keeping your home clean and sealed. Here are some steps you can take to discourage ants from moving in:
- Seal Entry Points: Close off cracks and crevices around doors, windows, and areas where utilities enter your home. Ants can easily slip through the smallest gaps.
- Proper Trash Management: Regularly dispose of garbage and use trash cans with tightly sealed lids to prevent ants from being attracted to food scraps.
- Clean Up Spills Immediately: Ants are highly attracted to food, especially sugary substances. Wipe up any spills promptly, especially in the kitchen and dining areas.
- Store Food Properly: Keep sweet foods like honey, sugar, and syrup in airtight containers to reduce the scent trail that attracts ants.
- Control Moisture: Ants thrive in moist environments. Fix leaky pipes and consider using a dehumidifier in areas prone to excess moisture, like basements and bathrooms.
- Landscaping Care: Remove old landscape materials, debris, and excess vegetation around your home. These can serve as nesting sites for ants and other pests.
- Routine Inspections: Periodically check your home for signs of an infestation. If you spot ants or other pests, address the issue early before it becomes a larger problem.
Why Ant Control Is Essential
While ants may seem harmless at first, they can quickly turn into a major issue if left unaddressed. Ants can contaminate food, damage property, and create unsanitary conditions. Additionally, certain species, like carpenter ants, can cause structural damage to wood by hollowing it out for nesting. Professional pest control services are key to ensuring that your home remains ant-free and safe from potential damage.
In Michigan, where ant infestations can be particularly persistent due to varying weather conditions, it’s essential to take preventive steps year-round. By following these guidelines and working with a professional pest control service, you can protect your home from ants and other unwanted pests.
Have ants? Don’t let a small bug problem become a big problem; contact Northern Pest today!
Northern Pest: Our family serving yours! We are licensed and insured to provide insect and wildlife pest control. Our crew has the expertise to track wildlife entry points and remove pests of all kinds, including our licensed builders, who can make any of the necessary repairs caused by wildlife. Northern Pest is a member of the MDAT and the NWCOA. We are certified by the IICRC to offer professional mold mitigation services caused by animal damage. At Northern Pest, we do it all!
Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.