Florida ants are hard workers in our ecosystem. They help cycle nutrients, maintain biodiversity, and more. Still, certain invasive or destructive species can quickly become household pests, invading our properties and searching for food and water. Contamination, property damage, and more could soon follow.
This blog on ant control in Crawfordvillewill help you determine the species of ants in your home and whether or not they can make you sick. We will also show you how to prevent ants from coming indoors and review the best ways to remove the entire colony for good.
How Can I Tell What Type Of Ant Has Invaded My Home?
Identifying our local types of ants can be challenging, as these unwanted guests are tiny and can look relatively similar depending on the species. Still, here's a quick guide to get you started.
Carpenter ants are larger than others and are typically black to reddish-brown. They have prominent mandibles that are hard to miss. They will readily excavate through the wood in your home to build nests and galleries for nesting, leaving sawdust-like debris in their wake.
Big-headed ants have distinctly larger heads on smaller bodies. You might see their foraging trail outdoors.
Pavement ants also favor being outside, though they will come indoors to look for food. You might spot these little black ants trailing along sidewalks or driveways.
Finally, we have crazy ants. They get their name from their erratic and quick movements. They are notorious for infesting electrical equipment and getting into sugary foods.
Identifying ants in your home is only part of the puzzle. Determining if they can make you sick is also essential.
Can Ants In My Home Make Me Sick?
Ants are not typically direct carriers of diseases. Unfortunately, it doesn't mean their presence in your home is harmless. They are unsanitary invaders that will readily contaminate your food supplies by crawling over them and transferring bacteria and pathogens they picked up elsewhere. Certain species may spread salmonella and other illnesses.
It is also possible for some people to develop allergic reactions to stings or bites, and DIY product use indoors could be hazardous without proper training. The best way to stay safe from ant infestationsis to keep them outside where they belong and prevent them from taking over your home.
How Do I Prevent Ants From Coming Into My Home?
You can prevent these unwanted invaders from entering your home with several proactive measures, including the following ant prevention tips:
- If your home has cracks or gaps, they could become vulnerabilities for ants to exploit, no matter how small. Seal these entry points as best you can to discourage pests from taking over.
- Prioritize cleanliness. Clean your counters and floors and store food in airtight containers. It is an essential step to eliminate potential food sources.
- Keep trash cans closed and clean. Place garbage bags in sealed bins indoors and outdoors. Regularly wipe them down or wash them to remove attractive food residues.
- Maintain your outdoor space. Fallen fruits can attract foraging ants. Trim vegetation and keep your yard tidy and clean to keep ants and other scavengers away.
- Avoid leaving food out. Feed your pets regularly and store their food in sealed containers outside of feeding times. Avoid leaving their bowl outdoors for too long. Keep your yard free of leftovers and debris.
These preventive measures are sure to make a difference on your property. Still, you might need additional help throughout the seasons. The Florida Sun Pest Control experts are ready to help if you do.
What's The Best Way To Get The Ants To Go Away?
Working with Florida Sun Pest Control is the fastest way to eradicate ants effectively. We have decades of experience dealing with local pests, including Florida ants, and can eliminate the most challenging intrusions with competitiveant controlservices that will meet your needs.
Through our Integrated Pest Management approach, we will implement a holistic treatment plan that combines prevention through habitat modification and sealing entry points and environmentally responsible removal strategies.
Florida Sun Pest Control is Crawfordville's top choice for ant pest control servicesthat deliver results. Don't put up with these tiny yet bothersome invaders. Call us today to schedule your inspection.