What Are Ants?

Did you know that ants are one of the most common insects in the world? There are more than 12,000 species of ants, and they can be found on every continent except for Antarctica. Ants are social creatures and live in colonies that can range in size from a few hundred to millions of individuals. There are many different species of ants, but the most common in the United States are carpenter ants, Pharaoh ants, and odorous house ants. The most common type of ant is the black carpenter ant.

Why Are Ants Dangerous?

Food Contamination

One of the biggest dangers that ants pose is their ability to contaminate food. Ants are attracted to sweet and sticky foods, and they can easily spread bacteria and other contaminants. In fact, one ant can contaminate an entire jar of food! And if that food is consumed, you could get sick. You should check your pantry regularly for ants and throw away any food that has been contaminated. They can even get into tightly sealed containers like Tupperware, as well as boxes of cereal,  crackers, and more.

Property Damage

Ants can also cause damage to your property. Some species of ants, like carpenter ants, can damage wood and other structures. Other types of ants build nests out of mud or soil, which can damage building foundations, sidewalks, and other structures. To check for damage, look for small piles of soil near the foundation of your home or in cracks and crevices on sidewalks and driveways. It can sometimes be hard to tell if the damage is caused by ants or some other pest, so it’s always best to call a professional if you suspect that ants are causing damage to your property.

Bites and Stings

Another danger that ants pose is their tendency to bite. While ants can be a nuisance, they are not known to cause any serious health risks. However, some people may have allergic reactions to ant bites or stings. If you experience any swelling or irritation after being bitten or stung by an ant, seek medical attention immediately. Certain types of ants, like fire ants, can also cause painful stings. If you have children or pets, be sure to keep an eye out for ant bites and stings and to make sure they stay away from ants if there is an ant problem.

Why Do I Have An Ant Problem?

There are a few reasons why you may have an ant problem. One reason is that ants are looking for food. If you have food or water sources that are accessible to ants, they will be attracted to your home. Ants may also enter your home in search of a place to build a nest. If you have a warm, dry environment inside your home, ants may decide to build their nest there.

How Can I Get Rid of Ants?

Ants can be a tricky pest to get rid of. If you have an ant problem, it’s best to call a professional pest control company. They will be able to identify the type of ant you have and determine the best course of treatment. Do-it-yourself methods may work for a while, but they are not usually effective in the long run.

How Can I Prevent Ants in the Future?

There are a few things you can do to help prevent ants in the future. One is to keep your home clean and free of food and water sources that ants are attracted to. Another is to seal up any cracks or crevices where ants may be able to enter your home. You should also keep an eye out for ants and call a professional if you see any signs of an ant problem.

Ants are tiny creatures, but they can cause big problems. If you have an ant problem, it’s best to call a professional pest control company for help. They will be able to identify the type of ant you have, determine the best course of treatment, and help you prevent ants in the future. For more information about Ants and how to get rid of them, call your local pest control company today.