Ants are scary, right? Yet, with the over 14000 species of ants across the world, you cannot tell which one will likely infest your home soon. Understanding the most common types of ants will ensure that you devise an excellent ant removal method. The following insights into the five most common ant types will make things much easier in the long run.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are among the largest and most common ants that can cause structural damage. You’ll find them in different sizes and shapes. For instance, the queen ant grows wings and measures up to one inch. On the other hand, worker ants are half an inch long. They have a pretty strong bite that can break your skin.
Carpenter ants thrive in wet and damaged wood structures. While they benefit nature by accelerating the decomposition of dead trees and stumps, they might attack useful structures. Gradually, they can invade your home.
Pavement Ants
Pavement ants are tiny, black, or brownish ants that have proven to be destructive and notable food contaminators. They are associated with substantial underground nests. They bore into damaged wood structures, creating trails they use to access your property.
Pavement ants do not sting unless provoked. Yet, they will likely affect the aesthetic appeal of your property, thanks to the dirt they will push on the pavement. In addition, they will invade buildings to forage for food, contaminating the same. You will also need to fight nests on your walls and floors once they invade your home.
Odorous House Ants
Odorous house ants are a significant nuisance. They are tiny and dark-colored, popularly found in buildings and homes. Their name comes from the distinct smell of rotten coconuts when you crash them. Typically, these ants will build their nests under rocks and within structures.
While odorous ants do not sting or bite, these pests can significantly contaminate your food. They will likely forage food in your pantry, becoming a constant nuisance. In addition, you will probably hate how they move around in colonies.
Thief Ants
The thief ant comes with a shiny, silky, light-brown appearance. Its petiole has two nodes, while its thorax is uneven. It is associated with stealing food and larvae from other ant nests. Notably, this ant can establish its nest outdoors and indoors, as long as the environment is conducive. In most cases, it is attracted to oily and packaged foods. However, it generally avoids sweets.
The thief ant bites and stings. It is also a nuisance, as it could destroy your property. Fortunately, controlling these types of ants is straightforward. All you need is chemical ant bait.
Ant extermination is a tedious process that requires a qualified professional. At Excellence Pest Control, we offer comprehensive pest control and extermination services. Our professionals use personalized approaches and sustainable methods to eliminate pests, including ants. Call us today at (918)336-8468 or (888)363-1697. You could also book us when there is an emergency.