Ant Control & Extermination Information
There are more than 700 ant species found in the U.S., although only about 25 species commonly infest homes. Ants are social insects that typically live in underground colonies, made up of workers and a queen. Ants will eat practically any kind of food, but are especially attracted to sweets. Ant identification is relatively simple due to their three distinct body regions: head, thorax and abdomen, as well as antennae. Despite similar construction, ants vary in overall appearance. Small or large ants and brown or black ants are common nicknames for different species.
Types of Ants
- Acrobat Ant
- Argentine Ant
- Carpenter Ant
- Crazy Ant
- Field Ant
- Ghost Ant
- Harvester Ant
- Leafcutting Ant
- Little Black Ant
- Odorous House Ant
- Pavement Ant
- Pharaoh Ant
- Pyramid Ant
- Red Imported Fire Ant
- Thief Ant
- White-footed Ant
- Yellow Ant
Ant Identification – What Do Ants Look Like?
While there are about 25 different ant species known to infest homes, they all share similar characteristics including antennae and six legs, while their size may differ by species. Ants are social insects, meaning they live in colonies that can house up to hundreds of thousands of individuals, so you’ll likely see more than one at a time. Inside the home, ants can primarily be found in the kitchen and bathrooms, as these areas provide access to food as well as moisture.
How Do You Get Rid of Ants in the House
Although they may be small in size, ants can pose serious threats by contaminating food and damaging property. Living and working in large colonies, an ant infestation can quickly spread if left unchecked. To help keep your home ant-free, follow these tips:
- Seal cracks and crevices around the home, especially in places where utilities enter
- Dispose of garbage regularly and use trash cans with a sealed lid
- Promptly clean up food and drink spills
- Store sweets such as honey and sugar in closed containers
- Eliminate excess moisture by repairing leaking pipes and using a dehumidifier as needed
- Remove old landscape materials, debris and excess vegetation from the property to reduce potential nesting sites for ants